Flash floods devastate Kurdistan after three consecutive days of heavy rainfall struck the Kurdistan Region and Kirkuk, causing deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction. The Joint Crisis Coordination Center released preliminary figures on Friday evening detailing the impact across several provinces. Officials confirmed that the floods killed at least five people and injured 19 others, while damage affected thousands of families. Moreover, authorities reported damage to 2,225 homes across Sulaimani, Kirkuk, Erbil, Halabja, and Duhok provinces, highlighting the scale of the disaster.
Additionally, officials recorded damage to more than 215 shops and workplaces, along with losses affecting 107 orchards. Furthermore, floodwaters disrupted 534 public and private projects, complicating recovery efforts. Heavy rainfall began on Monday and intensified over three consecutive days, which caused rivers and drainage systems to overflow. As a result, flash floods swept through eastern Sulaimani province on Tuesday, damaging homes, roads, and basic infrastructure.
Consequently, Kalar and Chamchamal districts experienced the most severe destruction, according to local officials. Residents described flooded streets, collapsed walls, and ruined household belongings. In Chamchamal alone, floods killed two people and injured twelve others. Authorities also reported damage to 1,607 homes, while floodwaters destroyed 15,000 chicks and damaged 200 vehicles. Moreover, officials confirmed damage to 115 shops and workplaces, as well as 450 ongoing projects, which disrupted local livelihoods.
Meanwhile, charities and local organizations quickly launched emergency relief efforts in affected districts. Aid groups focused particularly on Chamchamal, where volunteers helped residents remove debris and mud from damaged homes. Relief teams distributed food, blankets, and cleaning supplies to families in need. At the same time, community members expressed appreciation for the rapid response, while calling for long-term reconstruction support.
In the Garmian Independent Administration, officials confirmed one death linked to flooding. Additionally, floodwaters damaged 150 homes and more than 100 shops and workplaces in the area. In Kirkuk, the floods claimed two lives and injured one person, while authorities reported damage to 35 homes and five projects. These incidents further showed how flash floods devastate Kurdistan beyond the region’s borders.
In Erbil province, six people suffered injuries as a result of the floods. Officials also confirmed damage to 20 homes, along with the loss of nearly 398,000 fish. Furthermore, floodwaters damaged 107 orchards and 78 projects, increasing economic losses. In contrast, Halabja province reported damage to four homes without any casualties, while Duhok province recorded no injuries or destruction.
In Chamchamal, authorities suspended work in offices and schools due to unsafe conditions. Education officials extended the school holiday, stating that the city remains unprepared for normal activity. As assessments continue, flash floods devastate Kurdistan, underscoring urgent needs for infrastructure improvements and disaster preparedness.
