UNICEF Sounds Alarm Over Impact of Extreme Weather on Children in South Asia

UNICEF is appealing for US$9.3 million from the international community to support emergency preparedness and strengthen climate-resilience programs across the region.

UNICEF has expressed urgent concern about the severe impact of torrential rain, flash floods, and landslides affecting children across South Asia, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.

The agency extends its sympathies to the families mourning the loss of loved ones due to these extreme weather events. With over 6 million children and their families impacted, UNICEF is deeply worried about the ongoing crisis affecting those who have lost their homes or been displaced.

Flooding poses significant risks to children beyond immediate threats of injury and death. It contaminates safe water supplies, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks, including diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition if untreated. Prolonged flooding can result in chronic health issues, such as stunting and underweight conditions, while also damaging essential infrastructure like sanitation facilities, schools, and roads. Displacement further heightens the risk of abuse, exploitation, and child trafficking.

In Nepal, recent floods and landslides have resulted in at least 109 deaths, including 35 children, and have affected 1,580 families. UNICEF is actively working with the government and partners, providing aid such as bed nets, tarpaulins, water purification tablets, and psychosocial support, reaching over 4,500 people, including 1,800 children.

Bangladesh is grappling with the aftermath of torrential rains that have impacted 6.1 million children in the northern and northeastern regions since May. UNICEF is collaborating with local authorities and partners to deliver necessary relief and support.

India has faced unprecedented rainfall since June, leading to flash floods in Assam that have disrupted the lives of 500,000 children. Over 8,000 children were placed in relief camps, and UNICEF is supporting the Government of Assam in the ongoing response efforts.

In Afghanistan, recent flash floods in the eastern region have claimed 58 lives, affecting over 1,900 families. The northern provinces of Baghlan and Badakshan, along with the western province of Ghor, have been significantly impacted.

Pakistan has also experienced severe flooding, with at least 124 deaths, including 74 children, since April. The ongoing monsoon season continues to threaten lives and health. UNICEF is working with the Pakistani government to enhance preparedness and response measures.

UNICEF highlights that these extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, are severely impacting children across South Asia, as noted in the UNICEF Children’s Climate Risk Index. With predictions of heavier rainfall in the coming weeks, the situation remains critical.

The agency calls for immediate action to safeguard children’s lives and wellbeing. UNICEF is appealing for US$9.3 million from the international community to support emergency preparedness and strengthen climate-resilience programs across the region.