A. Situation analysis
Description of the disaster
On 13 and 14 April, 2016, heavy rainfall caused heavy flooding that swept across various governorates in Yemen killing at least 20 people and affecting more than 4,250 families (29,750 people) in six governorates (Hodeidah, Amran, Hajjah, Sana'a, Abyan, Al Mahwit, and Marib). The floods have caused severe damage to vital infrastructure, property, livestock and crops. Security officials reported that small dams have also collapsed as a result including two in Hajjah and Amran governorates. The affected people were in urgent need for shelter, food, non-food items (NFIs), water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and health assistance. The most affected governorates were Abyan, Amran, Hajjah, and Hodeidah. Some of the districts were severely affected within these three governorates including districts of Amran, Jabal Yazid, Sharis, Bait Qodam, Al Zuhrah, and Al Luhayah.
In Amran governorate the two districts of Amran and Jabal Yazid were severely affected. It was estimated that more than 800 families in Amran district, and 220 families in Jabal Yazid district were left without shelter as a result of the destruction of their houses by the floods. There was widespread destruction of both asphalt and dirt roads, cutting off thousands of people, drowning of livestock including cattle and chicken, spread of garbage all over the flooded areas and contaminating water sources.
A needs assessment and registration of the affected families was conducted. Over 200 families have been severely affected and lost their homes and were moved to 7 schools. In Hajjah, local authorities reported 14 people were killed in Sharis District, 100 to 150 households (350 people) displaced, 21 houses were fully damaged and 250 houses partially damaged. Reports also indicated that 400 to 500 households were in need of immediate health, WASH, Shelter/NFI and food assistance. In Al Hudaydah approximately 150 families were displaced and were living in open areas; however, many more were also affected. Assessment reports indicate that there has been loss of human lives, properties, livelihood, and public infrastructure. The most affected were farms, public services, markets, houses, schools, etc. The impact of the flash flood was further aggravated by the ongoing armed conflict and lack of basic services and limited capacity of disaster response and preparedness. The infrastructure has been damaged especially bridges and highways which were already affected by airstrikes. Although the disaster hit seven governorates, the level of devastation varied considerably from one place to another. Malaria and dengue fever were expected to be spreading, so awareness sessions were included in the plan.
Summary of the current response
Overview of Host National Society
Since its establishment in 1968/1970, YRCS has been working as one of the components of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (RCRC) to alleviate the human suffering.
Since the escalation of conflict in March 2015, YRCS has been a key actor in Yemen in responding to the unprecedented humanitarian needs in the country. The ICRC is leading the Movement international efforts to respond to the needs of affected population. Given the on-going crisis as well as frequent occurrence of natural disasters, the YRCS has gained experience in disaster and crisis response and mitigating the risks associated with this.