A devastating flash flood swept through the southern city of Jiroft in Iran, claiming the lives of 15 people, according to state media reports on Tuesday. The official IRNA news agency updated the death toll after the last body was recovered from the Halil River flood incident.
“After finding the last body of the Halil River flood incident in Jiroft, a total of 15 are pronounced dead,” IRNA reported. The search and rescue operations have concluded, authorities confirmed.
Jiroft, located in the typically arid southern province of Kerman, was unprepared for the sudden deluge. The region, known for its dry climate, has faced an increasing number of extreme weather events in recent years.
Scientists attribute such extreme weather patterns to climate change, which exacerbates events like droughts and intensifies rainstorms. Iran has experienced repeated droughts over the past decade, interspersed with severe floods when torrential rains fall on parched earth.
In 2022, heavy rains in southern Iran resulted in the deaths of at least 80 people and caused damages estimated at around $200 million. The recurring nature of these disasters highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness in vulnerable regions.
The latest tragedy underscores the impact of climate change on communities and the necessity for global efforts to mitigate its effects. As weather patterns become more unpredictable, regions like Jiroft face heightened risks that challenge their resilience and adaptability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com