Sudan Crisis Worsens as Violence and Flood Risks Grow

The conflict between rival militaries in Sudan has plunged the country, in particular the Darfur region, into a deep humanitarian crisis.

Escalating violence, displacement, and heavy rains are deepening the needs of civilians caught in the war in Sudan, the UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) said on Monday.

Nearly 27 months have passed since fighting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and their former ally, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), creating an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

The UN voiced grave concern over escalating hostilities in El Fasher, the besieged capital of North Darfur state.

Large numbers of RSF fighters reportedly entered the city on Friday for the first time since the siege began over a year ago. Local sources report that recent fierce fighting, particularly in the southwest and east of El Fasher, has resulted in civilian casualties.

“The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable, with a serious risk of renewed violence, further displacement, and disruption of humanitarian operations—which are already under severe strain,” OCHA said.

Meanwhile, in North Kordofan State, growing insecurity forced 3,400 people to flee their homes over the weekend, according to the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM). Local reports indicate that at least 18 civilians were killed and homes were burned in several villages.

OCHA reminded all parties that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law, and civilians must be protected at all times.

Heavy rains have also been reported in West and Central Darfur states, which may worsen road conditions in some areas and increase the challenges facing humanitarian workers trying to reach those in need.“With the rainy season continuing through October, the risk of floods, access constraints, and disease outbreaks is growing—especially during this critical lean season, a time between harvests when food stocks traditionally run low,” OCHA warned.

Despite the ongoing crisis, small-scale returns have been observed in West Darfur state, where displaced families have begun returning from Chad to three localities—Sirba, Jebel Moon, and Kulbus—to cultivate their farms.

Local authorities reported that about 40 people are returning daily to Kulbus, with 300 having arrived over the past week.

OCHA urged all parties to ensure safe and unimpeded access to all people in need across Sudan, and called on donors to step up their support.

Some 30 million people nationwide—more than half the population—require vital aid and protection this year.