This year has seen unprecedented global flooding, impacting regions across Central Asia, East Africa, West Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central Europe. In Kazakhstan, rapid snowmelt caused spring floods, while typhoons like Gaemi and Yagi brought heavy rains to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. In countries such as India and Bangladesh, seasonal monsoons contribute to recurring floods. The rising intensity and frequency of these events may be linked to a shift away from El Niño weather patterns, which typically bring drier conditions that weaken storms.

Human and Environmental Factors Contributing to Flooding

Man-made problems like urbanization and dam failures can lead to flooding, with poor drainage and excessive development increasing flood risks in cities by limiting water absorption and structural failures of dams or levees releasing large volumes of water. Rising sea levels and unpredictable weather patterns, driven by climate change, also increase the intensity and frequency of flooding.

The effects of flooding vary widely, and can be difficult to predict. For instance, even after being downgraded from a typhoon, Storm Yagi caused significant damage in Myanmar. Floods have also devastated infrastructure, which can leave communities isolated and complicate aid delivery. This happened following dam failures in Sudan and Libya, and after bridges were washed out in Vietnam and Central Europe. Flooding can also cause loss of life, displacement, and extensive damage to infrastructure and economies. It leads to health risks from waterborne diseases, food shortages, and environmental degradation. Communities often face long-term recovery challenges, with impacts on education, healthcare, and mental health.

The Severe Impact of Flooding in Conflict Zones

The aftermath of flooding is especially severe in conflict zones, such is the case in some areas of West Africa, where millions are already displaced. Recent floods have complicated the situation: International Rescue Committee estimates hundreds of thousands of people in the Sahel region have been newly displaced by floods. The area is also facing incredible strain on their food supply. Drought and conflict had already brought near-famine conditions to many communities; flooding this year has affected over 350,000 hectares of arable land. Famine drives even more displacement and further exacerbates the emergency situation. This is all addition to the fact that conflict areas are already grappling with infrastructure damage, weakened preparedness and early warning systems, and political instability, which potentially hinder aid because of security concerns, limited coordination, and government restrictions.

CAF America’s Crisis Response

CAF America is actively monitoring these crises and supporting local partners in their relief efforts through our Global Relief Navigator. Our partners include ASRAD Mali (responding to West Africa flooding), Impact Health Organization (addressing the Sudan humanitarian crisis), Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (for flash floods in Pakistan), SAJIDA Foundation (Bangladesh floods), and Leyte Center for Development (Philippines, Typhoon Gaemi). These organizations are on the ground, delivering vital support to affected communities.