Exceptionally heavy seasonal rains and flash floods have caused extensive damage and displacement across Yemen, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis after over nine years of conflict. More than 500,000 people have been affected in the hardest-hit governorates, including Al Mahweet, Al Hodeidah, Dhammar, Hajjah, Marib, Sa’ada, Sana’a, Ibb, and Taizz. Women and girls, particularly displaced female-headed households, face heightened protection risks, accounting for over 22 percent of those receiving emergency relief. Critical needs include emergency shelter, cash assistance, food, water, sanitation, and medical supplies to maintain health services.
In response, the UNFPA-led rapid response mechanism (RRM) was activated within 24 to 72 hours of displacement alerts, providing emergency aid to affected families. Since July 2024, RRM teams have verified 82,082 households and assisted 50,781, primarily those displaced by climate-related shocks. Despite lower rainfall expected in September, the risk of flash floods remains significant due to saturated soil and overflowing rivers, particularly in areas with poor drainage systems.
