Fatalities reported as floods sweep Duhok, KRG urges residents to stay indoors
Spokesperson for the Duhok General Directorate of Civil Defense announced two individuals have perished in the floods, with their bodies yet to be recovered; ten others sustained injuries.
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) reported two fatalities in Duhok due to floods on Wednesday, urging residents to remain indoors as heavy rains persist across the region since Tuesday morning, March 19.
Duhok province bore the brunt of the downpour, leading to flooding in multiple neighborhoods, submerging homes, and blocking several roads.
According to Bewar Abdulaziz, spokesperson for the Duhok General Directorate of Civil Defense, two individuals have perished in the floods, with their bodies yet to be recovered. Abdulaziz further stated that ten others sustained injuries, while civil defense teams rescued hundreds and provided assistance to affected citizens.
Governor Ali Tatar implored residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, cautioning against venturing into flood-prone areas. He noted the evacuation of residences in high-risk zones and assured that all efforts were underway to safeguard lives and minimize damage.
In an effort to assess the situation firsthand, Governor Tatar, accompanied by various department heads, visited several affected areas, directing officials to prioritize citizen safety and minimize harm.
Meanwhile, the Barzani Charitable Foundation dispatched aid to flood victims in Duhok, providing shelter and essential supplies.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani reaffirmed the KRG's commitment to assisting affected areas during a call with Duhok Governor Tatar, underscoring readiness to provide necessary aid.
In response to the crisis, the Erbil provincial media advised residents to stay indoors between 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm, while Sulaimani Traffic Directorate cautioned against traveling to mountainous regions due to unstable weather conditions on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.
