Relief News Updates
ReliefWeb - Disasters
ReliefWeb - Disasters
Philippines: Earthquake and Tsunami - Jun 2026
Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000
A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck 32 km offshore west of Maasim, Sarangani, at 7:37 a.m. on 08 June. Intensity VIII (very destructive) was reported in General Santos City. A tsunami alert triggered coastal evacuations across nine provinces and was lifted by mid-afternoon. More than 138 aftershocks have been recorded. Initial reports indicate 19 people dead, 12 missing and 134 injured. Figures for affected and displaced people remain provisional pending government validation and ongoing assessments. Homes, government buildings, hospitals and schools have been damaged or destroyed. Power and telecommunications outages have been reported, and damaged roads and bridges are constraining access to some communities. More than 3.2 million learners have been affected. Classes remain suspended in over 6,200 public and private schools pending safety assessments. (OCHA, 8 Jun 2026)
DR Congo/Uganda: Ebola Outbreak - May 2026
Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000
On 5 May 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) was alerted of a high-mortality outbreak of unknown illness in Mongbwalu Health Zone, Ituri Province, including deaths among health workers. Laboratory analysis confirmed Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a species of Ebola, in eight samples on 15 May. The case fatality rates in the past two BVD outbreaks have ranged from 30% to 50%. Unlike Ebola virus disease, there is no licensed vaccine or specific therapeutics against Bundibugyo virus, though early supportive care is lifesaving. On 15 May 2026, the Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare, DRC, officially declared the 17th Ebola Disease outbreak in DRC. As of 15 May, a total of 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths (four deaths among confirmed cases) have been reported from Rwampara, Mongbwalu, and Bunia; 24 suspected cases are currently in isolation facilities across the three HZ. (WHO, 16 May 2026)
Typhoon Sinlaku - Apr 2026
Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000
A tropical cyclone named Sinlaku formed over the western North Pacific Ocean on 9 April and started moving north-west toward Guam and the far southern Northern Mariana Islands as a tropical storm. On 10 April at 0.00 UTC its centre was located over the ocean approximately 885 km south-east of Guam, with maximum sustained winds of 74 km/h. (ECHO, 10 Apr 2026)
Over 11-12 April, Tropical Cyclone Sinlaku continued moving north-west over the western North Pacific Ocean toward the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, further strengthening. On 13 April at 00:00 UTC, its centre was located over the ocean approximately 455 km south-east of Guam, with maximum sustained winds of 287 km/h (Cat. 5 hurricane). [...] According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as of 13 April, seven shelters are in force as preventive measures across the Northern Mariana Islands. (ECHO, 13 Apr 2026)
Northern Mariana Islands (The United States of America)
According to FEMA, six shelters hosting 782 people are active in the Northern Mariana Islands, while seven shelters hosting 782 people are open in Guam. In addition, its passage through Micronesia (particularly Chuuk State) on 10–11 April caused the displacement of 100 people and resulted in widespread, serious damage on the islands of Weno, Tamatam, Piherarh, Onoun, Uman, Parem and Fanapanges. (ECHO, 14 Apr 2026)
Tropical cyclone SINLAKU made landfall over the central Tinian islands (north-central Northern Mariana Islands) on 14 April after 12 UTC, with maximum sustained winds of 231 km/h (Cat. 4 hurricane), and after that it continued moving north-west over the western North Pacific Ocean. On 15 April at 3.00 UTC, its centre was located over the ocean approximately 100 km north-west of the Tinian and Saipan islands, with maximum sustained winds of 204 km/h (Cat. 3 hurricane). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports, as of 15 April, 306 currently evacuated people in eight shelters across the Northern Mariana Islands and 858 evacuated people in seven shelters across Guam. The governor of Guam declared a state of emergency. (ECHO, 15 Apr 2026)
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a total of 1 080 people remain still evacuated in 16 evacuation centres, 320 in the Northern Mariana Islands and 760 in Guam. Additionally, FEMA and media report power and water outages, particularly on Guam, Saipan, Rota and Tinian. (ECHO, 16 Apr 2026)
Federated States of Micronesia:
Chuuk State experienced severe and widespread humanitarian impacts after the passage and stalling of Tropical Storm (Typhoon) Sinlaku, which remained near-stationary just offshore and subjected the islands to prolonged exposure to extreme winds, storm surge, and heavy rainfall. An estimated 34,000 people had been affected across the state, with displacement reported and at least 100 individuals who remained in evacuation centres as of 19 April. The full scale of impact was unclear due to communication blackouts, particularly in remote outer islands. Initial reports confirmed at least four fatalities. (IFRC, 19 Apr 2026)
Preliminary reporting indicated widespread housing loss across multiple municipalities, including severe impacts in Udot and high rates of major damages in several lagoon and outer-island communities. In addition, nearly 100 people were living in 3 shelters in Weno since the early days of the Typhoon. Based on the initial reports of the ongoing Initial Damage Assessment, more than 4,200 people had been displaced across 29 assessed municipalities. The most temporarily displaced were in Uman (~1,779), Fefen (580), Romanum (290), Udot (277), including other municipalities such as Makur, Piherech, Piss-Penau and Unanun. (Govt. Micronesia, 25 Apr 2026)
Preliminary findings from the Government-led Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) indicated that over 34,000 people across 29 municipalities had been affected, with 7 reported fatalities and 5 injuries. Approximately 4,200 people had been temporarily displaced. Many sheltered in schools, which delayed the resumption of education. (Pacific Humanitarian Team, 28 Apr 2026)
Based on the official IDA-derived severity analysis, In Chuuk State, seven municipalities were classified at severity 4 (high impact). An estimated 34,000people had been directly affected across all severity phases of which 25 municipalities are classified as severity 3 (moderate impacts) or severity 4 (high impacts). The crisis was geographically concentrated in: Chuuk Lagoon accounted for 83 percent of the affected population across 16 municipalities, withSouthern Namoneas as the epicenter of severity and Faichuuk was the largest contiguous area at severity 3 (moderate impacts). (Govt. Micronesia, 8 May 2026)
Food and water continue to be a critical need with a second round of distribution by national and state authorities, underway for the entire state of Chuuk. Approximately 13,000 people remain temporarily displaced; schools and churches (84 facilities) continue to be used as temporary shelters. Of the assessed health facilities, more than 65% are of high priority in terms of its criticality of function with additional risks due to the disruption of water supply, insufficient sanitation facilities and the lack of cold-chain capacity. The Presidential and State Declarations of Emergencies are in place until October 2026. (Pacific Humanitarian Team & OCHA, 15 May 2026)
Tropical Cyclone Vaianu - Apr 2026
Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Tropical Cyclone Vaianu affected Fiji between 7 and 8 April 2026, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread flooding. The system primarily impacted the Western Division, parts of Viti Levu, and maritime island communities. According to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) as of 8 April 2026, a total of 2,182 people (506 households) were displaced across 60 evacuation centers nationwide. The majority were located in the Western Division (1,796 people), followed by the Eastern (292 people), Northern (74 people), and Central Divisions (20 people). One fatality had been reported in Ra District, with no additional injuries or missing persons confirmed. [...] The Fiji Red Cross Society approximated that 10% of the population across the Western, Central, and Eastern Divisions had been impacted, representing an estimated 75,000 people affected. Flooding, submerged crossings, fallen trees, and infrastructure damage have restricted access in several areas, including parts of Naitasiri and other rural locations. Disruptions have also been reported across electricity, water supply, transport, and telecommunications, particularly in Ra, Ba, Nadroga, and Tavua. (IFRC, 18 Apr 2026)
Tropical Cyclone Maila - Apr 2026
Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Tropical Cyclone Maila intensified to a Category 3 system on 6 April in the Solomon Sea between Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, with winds up to 185 km/h. The cyclone remains slow-moving with an uncertain track, increasing the risk of prolonged exposure. (ECHO, 6 Apr 2026)
On 6 April, tropical cyclone MAILA continued moving very slowly over the Solomon Sea, with maximum sustained winds up to 176 km/h. On 7 April at 0.00 UTC, its centre was located offshore, approximately 545 km east of far south-eastern Papua New Guinea, with maximum sustained winds of 167 km/h (equivalent to cat. 2 hurricane in the Saffir-Simpson scale). (ECHO, 7 Apr 2026)
Tropical cyclone MAILA is moving towards eastern Papua New Guinea over the Solomon Sea after it crossed the Solomon Islands. On 9 April at 00 UTC, its centre was located offshore, approximately 200 km south of southern Bougainville Island (eastern Papua New Guinea), with maximum sustained winds of 185 km /h. Following its passage over Solomon Islands affecting Choiseul, Western, Isabel, Guadalcanal and Central provinces, seven people are missing, 120 have been displaced and almost 73 000 people in total are affected. (ECHO, 9 Apr 2026)
On 9 April, tropical cyclone MAILA continued moving very slowly over the Solomon Sea, with maximum sustained winds up to 185 km/h, weakening. On 10 April at 0.00 UTC, its centre was located offshore, approximately 215 km north-east of the Muyua Island (far eastern Papua New Guinea), with maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h. According to media, its passage over the Solomon Sea caused heavy rainfall and consequent floods and landslides across Bougainville Island (eastern Papua New Guinea), resulting in two fatalities. (ECHO, 10 Apr 2026)
Over 10-11 April, tropical cyclone MAILA continued moving very slowly over the Solomon Sea, with maximum sustained winds up to 130 km/h, further weakening into a tropical storm and dissipating. Its passage over the Solomon Sea caused very heavy rainfall, strong winds and consequent floods, landslides and severe weather-related incidents across eastern Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Media and the IFRC reports, as of 13 April, 11 fatalities (of whom eight are due to a landslide), seven still missing persons, an uncertain number of displaced people and approximately 120,000 affected people across the Bougainville island (eastern Papua New Guinea). In addition, a number of temporary shelters were provided by national authorities for the displaced people. (ECHO, 13 Apr 2026)
Papua New Guinea
25 affected communities were assessed across West New Britain, East New Britain and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, with 7,247 people affected and 5,828 people in need of humanitarian assistance. The assessed wards reported 11 deaths, 70 people who required evacuation, 293 people in need of urgent medical care, and 568 school-aged children not attending school. The NDC-NEOC joint assessment and relief teams deployed on 18 April aboard two PNGDF patrol vessels to Rossel and Woodlark islands. (UN CT Papua New Guinea, 21 Apr 2026)
Assessments had expanded to 140 wards in 23 LLGs, in 8 districts, over 5 affected provinces by 30 April. Findings indicated more than 83,000 people affected and nearly 77,000 people in need of humanitarian assistance, with 33 reported fatalities. (UN CT Papua New Guinea, 30 Apr 2026)
As of 08 May 2026, NDC-NEOC rapid assessments had expanded to 230 wards across 28 Local Level Governments (LLGs), in 10 districts, across 5 affected provinces. Preliminary analysis indicated that over 119,000 people have been affected, with nearly 107,000 people in need of humanitarian assistance. A total of 49 fatalities had been reported. (UN CT Papua New Guinea, 8 May 2026)
As of 16 May 2026, assessments had expanded to 256 wards in 29 LLGs, across 10 districts and 5 affected provinces. Preliminary findings indicated more than 128,000 people affected, with more than 114,000 people in need of humanitarian assistance, and 50 reported fatalities. As of 15 May 2026, the National Disaster Centre’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NDC-NEOC) has been deactivated as the response transitioned to the recovery phase, with coordination shifted to provincial levels. Logistics constraints persisted due to damaged infrastructure and difficult sea conditions, with reliance on air and maritime transport. (UN CT Papua New Guinea, 16 May 2026)
Solomon Islands
The most severe impacts were reported in Western Province, with significant damage recorded in Choiseul and Isabel Provinces. One fatality was reported in Wagina and seven people remained missing in Marovo as of 13 April. About 21 health facilities were impacted. The WASH situation on Simbo Island is considered critical, due to groundwater contamination and damaged water systems. A suspected diarrheal outbreak was reported in Babanga and Simbo. Approximately 31,945 individuals required emergency shelter and essential household items. 59 schools were damaged, which affected 2,000 children in Western and Choiseul provinces. (IFRC, 20 Apr 2026)
Iinitial indications suggested that over 150,000 people have been affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila, with 161 communities impacted in Western Province alone, reflecting the widespread scale of the disaster. Displacement remains a significant concern. 260 evacuation centers had been established across the affected provinces, and an estimated 31,000 people required urgent shelter assistance. (OCHA & Pacific Humanitarian Team, 24 Apr 2026)
Displacement assessments conducted across 13 communities in Western Province identified 844 displaced individuals. Subsequent household-level surveys (29 April–6 May) covered 203 households, highlighting evolving and still incomplete data on needs. While response efforts are ongoing, access constraints, geographic dispersion, and logistical challenges continue to limit delivery. [...] Additionally, UXO contamination risks have increased, particularly in Western Province, due to flooding and erosion exposing ordnance, posing risks during response and recovery activities. (OCHA & Pacific Humanitarian Team, 10 May 2026)
Tropical Cyclone Maila continues to generate significant humanitarian needs across Western and Choiseul Provinces in the Solomon Islands, with ongoing displacement and sheltering in collective centres and host communities. Initial assessments have identified 161 communities affected in Western province with 31,000 in need of shelter support across both provinces. Humanitarian needs continue to evolve, while access constraints, geographic dispersion and logistical challenges contribute to significant information gaps in remote areas. Protection risks are increasing due to displacement and overcrowding and are further compounded by unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination, with flooding and erosion exposing ordnance and heightening hazards for affected communities and responders. The Emergency Relief Coordinator has allocated US$2.5 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support urgent life-saving assistance. (OCHA, 21 May 2026)
Yemen: Floods - Mar 2026
Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
[...] The rainy season in Yemen began earlier than usual, with initial low-intensity rainfall recorded starting from 20 March 2026. From 27 March 2026 onwards, rainfall intensified significantly, triggering severe flooding across Yemen and approximately more than ten governorates were affected, including Taiz (Al-Mokha), Al Jawf, Ibb, Abyan, Al Bayda, Lahj, Marib, Al Hodeidah, Hadramout, Aden, and Al Dhale’e. According to Yemen Red Crescent Society (YRCS) reports, the floods have caused widespread humanitarian impacts, affecting an estimated 83,713 people (11,959 households). Of those affected, many live in IDP sites and flood-prone areas. A total of 254 incidents have been reported to YRCS EOC across branches, indicating a broad geographic spread and increasing pressure on response capacities. The disaster has resulted in at least 30 fatalities and 47 injuries, underscoring the severity of the situation. Reports from ECHO indicate that since 27 March 2026, heavy rains and flooding have severely impacted coastal areas of Taiz Governorate, with additional flooding reported in Aden, Abyan, Marib, Lahj, and Al Hodeidah. At least 15 deaths have been reported, and approximately 9,820 households (68,740 people) have been affected, including populations across 49 IDP sites. (IFRC, 6 Apr 2026)
Since late March, southwestern Yemen has experienced heavy rainfall and severe flooding, resulting in fatalities, displacement, and widespread damage. The most affected areas include Al-Mokha, Mawza, and Al-Wazeyah districts (Ta’iz Governorate) and Al-Khukha and Hays districts (Al-Hodeidah Governorate). According to multiple sources, at least 24 people have died, while 7 900 households have been affected along the West Coast. Humanitarian partners continue assessing the damage, with some inter-agency reports suggesting up to 30 000 households may be impacted. (ECHO, 30 Apr 2026)
Tanzania: Floods and Landslides - Mar 2026
Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
In late March 2026, prolonged and intense rainfall associated with the March–May rainy season caused severe flooding and landslides in the Mbeya Region, located in Tanzania’s Southern Highlands. The most affected area was Rungwe District, where continuous heavy rains saturated the soil, triggering multiple landslides and flash floods.
The disaster occurred primarily between the evening of 25 March and the early hours of 26 March 2026, with heavy rainfall reported for several consecutive hours. According to local authorities and media reports, the rains were accompanied by strong winds, significantly worsening ground instability and surface runoff.
The worst‐affected wards were Nkunga, Lupepo, Kawetele and Ikuti in Rungwe District. Landslides swept through these communities, burying houses constructed mainly of mud bricks and corrugated iron sheets, while flooding damaged access roads and public infrastructure.
As of 27 March 2026, official reports confirmed that at least 20 people had lost their lives, the majority of whom were children, and several others were injured. Search and rescue operations were ongoing amid continued rainfall, with concerns about secondary landslides and further flooding. (IFRC, 10 Apr 2026)
Afghanistan: Floods - Mar 2026
Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Since 25 March, multiple provinces of Afghanistan have been affected by heavy rains and resultant floods. The most affected provinces include Parwan, Maidan Wardak, Daikundi, Logar, Herat, Farah, Badghis, Ghor, Samangan, Sar-e Pol, Jawzjan, Faryab, and Laghman. As of 31 March, media reported 42 fatalities and 66 people injured. A total of 1,130 families are affected. 130 houses were destroyed, and more than 900 houses were damaged. Livestock perished, and roads, irrigation canals as well as agricultural land has been destroyed. (ECHO, 1 Apr 2026)
Since 26 March, heavy rainfall and flash floods have been reported across multiple provinces in all regions of Afghanistan, including central, central highland, eastern, northern, northeastern, southern, southeastern and western regions, causing widespread damage to homes, infrastructure and agricultural land. According to preliminary reports from field teams, the flooding resulted in 25 deaths and 8 injuries, with 103 houses destroyed and more than 517 partially damaged, affecting over 1,260 families. (OCHA, 2 Apr 2026)
Between 26 March and 6 April, heavy rainfall and flash floods affected all eight regions of Afghanistan. Preliminary reports indicate that more than 73,300 people (approximately 10,634 families) have been affected, with at least 93 people killed, 181 injured and four missing. To date, inter-agency joint needs assessment teams have assessed 12,922 individuals (1,845 families) requiring assistance, with further assessments ongoing. A total of 9,010 homes have been affected, including 7,672 destroyed and 1,338 damaged. (OCHA, 9 Apr 2026)
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) reports, as of 13 April, 161 fatalities, eight still missing persons, 230 injured people and a total of more than 74 200 affected people. In addition, the IFRC also reports over 10 600 damaged houses, many of them entirely destroyed, across the affected provinces. (ECHO, 13 Apr 2026)
As of 16 April, more than 31,600 people had been confirmed in need of urgent assistance, with assessments ongoing in 75 districts. More than 12,000 people affected received some form of support. The World Food Programme assisted nearly 2,600 flood-affected families with two‑month food rations, while food partners provided cash-based support to 97 families in Herat. Health partners delivered essential services to about 6,300 people. WASH partners reached 733 families, and nutrition partners screened 160 children. Protection partners supported over 2,200 people, amid heightened risks affecting an estimated 14,000. (OCHA, 17 Apr 2026)
[...] heavy rain and thunderstorms have affected ten provinces of Afghanistan (Kabul, Bamiyan, Paktia, Ghor, Badghis, Balkh, Samangan, Sar‑e Pol, Jawzjan, and Baghlan), causing floods and resulting in casualties and damage. According to media reports, at least 13 people have died and nine others have been injured. In addition, around 200 houses have been damaged or completely destroyed, while 17 water‑supply networks and 12 kilometres of roads have been affected by the floods. (ECHO, 27 Apr 2026)
Humanitarian partners have continued scaling up response efforts following the recent rains and floods across the country. Overall, several hundred people are reported to have been killed and injured, up to 7,500 homes damaged (6,000) or destroyed (1,500), along with other critical infrastructure, including hundreds of kilometres of vital roads and multiple bridges, and vast swathes of agricultural lands. To date, 56,900 people have been confirmed in need of assistance [...]. (OCHA, 29 Apr 2026)
Very heavy rainfall had caused flash floods and affected seven provinces of Afghanistan since 24 April. The IFRC reported, as of 5 May, 16 fatalities, two missing persons, and a total of nearly 3,600 people affected across Faryab, Badghis, Baghlan, Bamiyan, Badghis, Ghor and Sar-e Pul. Additionally, 510 damaged houses were reported. (ECHO, 5 May 2026)
According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), as of 8 May, the death toll stands at 16 fatalities, with nine injured people. In addition, UN OCHA also reports a total of approximately 73 300 affected people (of whom around 56 900 are in need of assistance) and approximately 7 500 damaged houses (of which an uncertain number are completely destroyed) across the affected area. (ECHO, 8 May 2026)
Following heavy and sustained rainfall, flash floods occurred in May 2026 across the country, affecting communities in Helmand, Herat, Uruzgan, Samangan, Parwan, Kapisa, Kabul, Takhar, Diakundi, Ghor, Baghlan, Sar-e-pul, Kandahar, Badakhsan, Maidan Wardak and Daikundi provinces. Low-lying areas and settlements located along riverbeds were particularly impacted. [...] According to preliminary information compiled by the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), more than 1401 families were affected. The floods caused 28 deaths and 23 injuries, with 4 cases of missing people reported. Shelter damage was significant, with 1401 houses completely and partially damaged, particularly in several provinces of Helmand, Herat, Uruzgan, Samangan, Parwan, Kapisa, Kabul, Takhar, Diakundi, Ghor, Baghlan, Sar-e-pul, Badakhsan, Kandahar, Maidan Wardak and Daikundi. In addition, the floods had a severe impact on livelihoods, resulting in the loss of 660 livestock and damage to approximately 1,754 jeribs of agricultural land, further increasing vulnerabilities among farming and pastoral households. (ARCS & IFRC, 23 May 2026)
Guinea-Bissau: Fire - Mar 2026
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
On March 24th , 2026, a large fire devastated the village of TUCUNDE, CARAVELA Sector, Bolama /Bijagós Region, Caravela Island is the northernmost island of the Bijagós Archipelago, located in the administrative region of Bolama, in Guinea-Bissau. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 37 km from the mainland coast, it is part of the Caravela Sector, with 128 km² and a landscape of dense forests, mangroves and beaches, with an airport (GGCV). It caused the total destruction of twenty-three (23) houses, belonging to sixty seven (67) households, with around 469 people directly affected. (IFRC, 10 Apr 2026)
Liberia: Windstorms - Mar 2026
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Between 19 and 24 March 2026, violent windstorms struck multiple communities in Nimba and Lofa Counties, Liberia, causing widespread damage to fragile housing and displacing numerous families. The storms affected 11 communities, six in Nimba County and five in Lofa County, leaving households exposed to harsh weather and without essential belongings. A total of 3,704 people (approximately 529 households) were directly affected, including 1,685 men and 2,019 women. Assessments indicate 213 houses were damaged, with 139 partially destroyed and 74 completely destroyed, forcing families to rely on host communities or temporary shelters. (IFRC, 10 Apr 2026)
Liberia: Fires - Mar 2026
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Between 24 and 28 March 2026, Liberia experienced a series of widespread fire outbreaks across five counties: Grand Cape Mount, River Cess, Margibi, Nimba, and Montserrado resulting in severe humanitarian challenges for affected families and communities. In total, 234 households, representing 1643 people, were impacted.
The fires destroyed 61 houses, of which 41 were completely destroyed and 20 were partially damaged. As a result, many families were displaced and lost essential belongings, including clothing, bedding, and cooking utensils.
Beyond the immediate physical destruction, the incidents significantly disrupted livelihoods. Many affected households have been forced to rely on host families and already overstretched community resources. The extent of the damage highlights the vulnerability of local housing structures and underscores the urgent need to strengthen community-level fire prevention and preparedness measures. (IFRC, 9 Apr 2026)
Bangladesh: Measles Outbreak - Mar 2026
Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
The Bangladesh Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported that 118 children have died across the country since March 15 with suspected measles. During the same period, 5,940 children were hospitalised with measles symptoms, of whom 1,099 were further positively confirmed. Bangladesh launched an emergency measles-rubella campaign on April 5 with UNICEF, WHO and GAVI, to protect over 1.2 million children in 30 upazilas (sub-district administrative units). IFRC is facilitating the mobilisation of community volunteers for emergency vaccination campaign. The Dhaka Division has recorded the highest number of confirmed cases to date. (ECHO, 7 Apr 2026)
Bangladesh is facing a nationwide measles surge since mid-March, with cases reported in 57 on 64 districts. As of 9 April, 11,133 suspected cases and 1,599 confirmed cases have been recorded, alongside 138 suspected child deaths. Transmission remains high, mainly affecting children under five (80%), reflecting immunity gaps due to sub-optimal routine vaccination. In Rohingya camps (Cox’s Bazar), 76 suspected and 8 confirmed cases have been reported across multiple camps (including Camps 1E, 2E, 5, 9, 18, 20, 27 and Bhasan Char). Most cases (75%) are children under five, and 75% are unvaccinated. No cases have been confirmed among recent arrivals, but overcrowding and unknown vaccination status of 150,000 new refugees heighten outbreak risk. (ECHO, 10 Apr 2026)
Bangladesh is experiencing a measles outbreak across 58 out of 64 districts. To date, 166 children have died (32 laboratory-confirmed) and 19,161 cases have been hospitalised (2,973 laboratory-confirmed). In Rohingya camps, 211 suspected cases have been reported (8 confirmed). The outbreak is driven by gaps in routine immunisation, with clusters of zero-dose and under-vaccinated populations, compounded by delays in the 2025 nationwide measles-rubella (MR) campaign. [...] An emergency MR campaign began on 5 April, reaching 943,000 children (6 months–5 years) by 13 April. Around 22 million doses are being distributed. In Rohingya camps, vaccination will run from 26 April to 7 May, targeting 178,028 children. (ECHO, 16 Apr 2026)
As of 22 April, 27,164 suspected cases and 3,934 laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported nationwide, including at least 190 measles-related deaths, although the overall mortality burden is likely to be underestimated due to underreporting. Children under five accounted for 80 per cent of reported cases as of 19 April. Transmission was reported in Rohingya refugee camps, where 331 suspected measles cases, including eight laboratory-confirmed cases, had been reported as of 22 April. The measles-rubella vaccination campaign expanded on 20 April, with 4.14 million children vaccinated. Partners deployed 14.9 million doses and trained more than 26,000 frontline workers. (UN RC Bangladesh, 23 Apr 2026)
The 2026 measles surge represents a dramatic escalation, with confirmed cases jumping to more than 5,400 compared to less than 280 annually in the previous five years. From 15 March to 4 May, a total of 41,793 suspected measles cases were reported nationwide. Since mid March, a total of 5,567 laboratory confirmed measles cases and 253 suspected measles deaths had been reported nationally. Dhaka Division reported the highest cumulative burden, with 18,975 cases, and 34 confirmed deaths. According to the latest EPI coverage evaluation data (2023), national coverage for the first and second doses of the measles–rubella (MR) vaccine stands at 86.1% and 80.7%, respectively. This leaves a substantial proportion of children unvaccinated. Weekly syndromic surveillance data indicate a sharp rise in measles consultations from epidemiological weeks 12–15 of 2026, suggesting intensified transmission during April. Children under five years accounted for 61% of laboratory-confirmed cases in 2026, including 22% among infants younger than nine months. The epidemiological evidence indicates active and expanding measles transmission in Rohingya camps, with incidence markedly exceeding recent years. Persistent zero-dose and partial vaccination among confirmed cases continues to drive outbreak risk in densely populated camp environments. Mortality data and case fatality ratios were not reported, limiting assessment of disease severity. (Bangladesh Red Crescent & IFRC, 5 May 2026)
Bangladesh has reported 57,856 suspected measles cases and 8,067 confirmed cases across all 64 districts as of 20 May, with children under five accounting for 81 per cent of reported cases. More than 18.3 million children have been vaccinated through the nationwide measlesrubella (MR) campaign, surpassing the initial target and reaching 102 per cent coverage. Weekly measles transmission remains high, with average daily reported cases exceeding 1,100 since 9 April, despite declines observed in several high-priority upazilas following the start of vaccination activities. In Bhasan Char and Cox’s Bazar camps, vaccination campaigns reached most targeted children, while 595 suspected cases, 60 confirmed cases and five deaths have been reported among Rohingya refugees to date. (UN RC Bangladesh, 21 May 2026)
Botswana: Floods - Mar 2026
Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Between 15 and 19 March 2026, severe flooding affected multiple areas of the Palapye Sub District in the Central District, including Majwaneng, Lerala, Seolwane, Mokokwana, Mosweu, Maunatlala, Martins Drift and surrounding farming areas. […] By 20 March, findings confirmed a surge in needs and vulnerabilities, with 7,829 people affected across districts. The assessment highlighted urgent support requirements in Central/Palapye District, where over 2,335 households (7,707 individuals) suffered shelter damage, loss of household items, and displacement. (IFRC, 3 Apr 2026)
Ethiopia: Floods and Landslides - Mar 2026
Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Torrential rains in the Gammo Zone in South Ethiopia Regional State caused flooding and landslides on 10 March 2026, affecting 11 villages, claiming at least 96 lives, and destroying property in 780 households.Altogether, around 1,950 households were affected, and all villages reported displaced populations, now sheltering in churches and public spaces. The worst-hit areas were Mazo Doisa, Kuyile, and Laka. Accessibility remains difficult, with several roads remaining blocked. The Ethiopian Red Cross Society deployed staff, volunteers, and ambulances to address the most urgent needs which include, food, non-food items, shelter, WASH and health. (ECHO, 13 Mar 2026)
Kenya: Floods - Mar 2026
Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
From 21-22 April, severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds battered Mombasa and Kwale counties in south‑east Kenya, triggering localised flooding, displacing residents, damaging homes and disrupting essential infrastructure.In Mombasa county, media reports dated 22 April indicated that over 100 households were displaced, with extensive damage to dwellings. Flash floods blocked transport routes in Nyali sub‑county, and access to health services was interrupted in Tudor, Mvita sub‑county.In Kwale county, one person remains missing after being swept away by floodwaters, and five households were affected as well. Additionally, several villages have been cut off and small‑scale farmers face significant agricultural losses.A further 24‑hour forecast predicts moderate, scattered rain across the south‑east, north‑east and south‑west regions. (ECHO, 24 April 2026)
On 6th March 2026, at approximately 1830 hours, flash floods struck Nairobi and its surrounding areas following an intense six‑hourdownpour. Rainfall levels reached unprecedented highs, with 160 mm recorded at the Wilson Airport meteorological station, 145 mm atMoi Air Base, 112 mm in Dagoretti, and 117 mm at the Kabete station, all within a span of 3 to 5 hours. The capital city had justexperienced over 534mm of rainfall. The heavy rains swept away bridges, destroyed homes, and rendered major roads impassable, leaving hundreds of residents displaced. The combination of loss of life, widespread property damage, and signicant disruption to critical infrastructure further compounded the crisis. Nationwide, 53 people lost their lives, including 27 fatalities in Nairobi in a single night. (IFRC, 12 May 2026)
Suriname: Chikungunya Virus Outbreak - Mar 2026
Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
On March 4, 2026 Suriname's Ministry of Health has confirmed a significant increase in the cases of chikungunya virus (CHIK V) following the previous declaration of outbreak in late January. Based on the Central Laboratory of the Bureau for Public Health (BOG) and the laboratory of the Academic Hospital Paramaribo, over 1,357 individuals have tested positive, confirming local transmission and one confirmed death and another to be determined. (IFRC, 19 Mar 2026)
Tropical Cyclone Fytia - Jan 2026
Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Tropical Cyclone Fytia developed over the Mozambique Channel on 28 January and intensified as it tracked eastwards toward Madagascar. The cyclone made landfall on 31 January in some of the country’s most remote areas, which are rarely affected by humanitarian crises. As it approached and crossed the western coast, forecasts indicated heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough seas across large parts of central and northern Madagascar. Meteorological authorities warned of a high risk of flooding, wind damage and storm surge in low-lying coastal areas, particularly along the west coast. By late 31 January, information on casualties, displacement and damage remained limited, as the cyclone was still impacting affected areas and access constraints were expected in the immediate aftermath. Initial reports from partners indicate that an estimated 5,000 people have been displaced. The total number of affected people has yet to be established in Mitsinjo and Soalala districts in Melaky Region, which are currently believed to be unreachable. Preliminary reports indicate damage to at least 22 schools, including eight that are reportedly totally destroyed, potentially leaving 1,100 students out of school in the coming days. In addition, eight schools are currently being used as temporary accommodation sites in Mahajanga I, Marovoay, Ambohidratrimo and Antananarivo Antsimondrano (OCHA, 31 Jan 2026)
Brazil: Floods - Feb 2026
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000
After the very heavy rainfall, floods, flash floods and landslides that have affected southern Brazil since 23 February, the humanitarian impact has increased. The affected states are Minas Gerais (the worst affected) and the neighbouring states of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. The federal government reports, as of 2 March, 70 fatalities, of whom 64 are across the Juiz de Fora municipality and six are fatalities in the Ubá municipalities (both in the southern Minas Gerais state). In addition, the same source reports five persons still missing, of whom three are in Juiz de Fora and two in Ubá. (ECHO, 2 Mar 2026)
Between February 24/2/26 and 25/2/26, flooding caused by rain and landslides was reported in the southeast of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The most affected areas were Juiz de Fora, Ubá, Matias Barbosa, Senador Firmino, Rodeio, Guidoval, Cataguases, Astolfo Dutra, Divinésia, Dona Eusébia, Itamarati de Minas, Piau, and Rio Pomba. Although the rains are seasonal, the event had a high humanitarian impact concentrated in the aforementioned areas. As of 5 March, approximately 5,510 people were reported to be affected. Of these, all had been displaced, 59 had died, and 15 were missing. In terms of historical exposure, Minas Gerais has faced recurrent flooding; within the state, the prevalence is higher in Juiz de Fora than in Ubá. Since 2000, the state has recorded at least 19 significant hydrometeorological events, distributed evenly over time, with a predominance of storm flooding. (IFRC, 26 Mar 2026)
Peru: Floods and Landslides - Feb 2026
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Since 23 February, Peru (particularly the southern provinces of Arequipa and Ica, as well as Piura and Tumbes in the northwest) has been battered by heavy rains, triggering deadly floods and landslides. As of 24 February, media reports confirm at least four fatalities: two in a landslide in Arequipa, one in flash floods in Cayma District, and one struck by lightning in Uchumayo. Many have been evacuated, with over 5,500 people affected, while homes, roads, and bridges have suffered damage, disrupting essential services. Authorities have declared more than 700 districts in a state of emergency, and rescue efforts were further devastated when a military helicopter crashed during operations, killing 15. Forecasts warn of continued moderate to heavy rainfall across Peru in the next 48 hours. (ECHO, 24 Feb 2026)
Peruvian press reports 52 people dead and 85,000 people impacted by heavy rains, floods and landslides, since the beginning of the year. Access to 8 sponsored communities in Piura, where 1,000 sponsored families reside, has been compromised by heavy rainfall. 21 districts have been declared in emergency due to heavy rainfall, floods and landslides, and 941 have been declared in emergency due to imminent danger caused by the “Niño Costero” phenomenon. (Plan International, 3 Mar 2026.)
Since January 2026, various parts of Peru have been battered by intense rains linked to the coastal El Niño, sparking extensive flooding, landslides, and river overflows, resulting in fatalities and damage. UN OCHA reports that, as of 17 March, the death toll has climbed to 92, with more than 23 000 people displaced across the Andean, Amazonian, and northern coastal regions. The National El Niño Commission continues to keep the El Niño Costero alert in force. (ECHO, 24 Mar 2026)
Angola: Floods - Feb 2026
Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000
From 21st to 23rd February 2026, rainfall in several municipalities in Cunene Province, caused floods affecting homes and social infrastructure. with the highest incidence in the municipalities of Cuvelai, Cuanhama and Mupa. As of 23rd February 2026, the Government of Angola Multisectoral Assessment Team Report estimated that 1,428 people (306 families) were affected, with 780 people (130 families) displaced. Out of these 306 houses affected, 243 were flooded and 64 destroyed with 19 social infrastructures affected.
On 27th February 2026, the Cubango Province Civil Protection and Firefight shared with the National Society a summary report on rainfall damage for the period of August 2025 to February 2026, indicating that 5065 people (1013 families) were affected and 679 houses were affected, with 320 completely destroyed. (IFRC, 17 Mar 2026)
