A devastating dam collapse in Sudan’s northwest Red Sea State has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least 30 people confirmed dead and hundreds more believed to be missing. The disaster has also left a trail of destruction, with flash flooding decimating 20 villages and damaging 50 others, affecting approximately 50,000 people.

The villages of Khor-Baraka and Tukar have been particularly hard hit, with residents forced to flee for safety. The collapse of the dam has caused widespread destruction, with industrial trucks and vehicles buried in mud and debris. The dam facility supplies fresh water to Port Sudan, the country’s fifth-largest city, which is now facing a severe water shortage.

Initial reports suggest that torrential rains caused the dam to breach, resulting in the reservoir behind it being fully drained. The damage is expected to worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in the Red Sea State, which has been ravaged by civil war for over a year.

In response to the disaster, Sudan’s Federal Minister of Health has promised emergency humanitarian assistance, including basic medicines and medical personnel. The Sudanese Armed Forces chief has also visited the affected area, committing to provide resources to support evacuation efforts.

The United Nations is working with partners and local officials to reach communities affected by the collapse. The region surrounding the Arba’at Dam hosts nearly 240,000 displaced people, who are now facing an even greater crisis.

The Sudanese Environmentalists Association has warned that the city is threatened with thirst in the coming days, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. The international community must come together to support the people of Sudan in this time of need.