The flood situation, which is particularly serious in two States, is part of the recurrent flood phenomenon in Sudan. Within the last twelve years the country witnessed four major flood events, namely in 1988,1994,1998 and 1999. The magnitude of the 1998 flooding, affecting half of the States of Sudan, was considered even above the 1988 floods, which themselves were unprecedented. National and international experts agree that the cumulative effects of these events on the social fabric, the physical infrastructure and national resources pose considerable obstacles to the development of the country. No significant change since OCHA situation report No.1.
Needs continue to exist in the health and sanitation sectors.
Three provinces, Umbadda, Karari and Omdurman, were hit by severe flooding, caused by run-off rainfall from neighbouring Kordofan State, gushing towards the Nile. The enormity of the runoff caught people and State authorities by surprise. 90,000 people were directly affected. The collapse of thousands of pit latrines resulted in the pollution of water supplies, and large amounts of stagnant water have led to an increase in malaria, diarrhea and other water-borne diseases. In response, the State authorities developed an emergency plan combining short and medium-term measures.