South Sudan Faces Drought, Flood Risks as FEWS NET Warns of Extreme Weather
By Sasuk Taban
South Sudan is expected to continue experiencing contrasting weather extremes, with persistent drought affecting southern parts of the country while flood risks remain high in the Sudd wetlands, according to the latest FEWS NET Global Weather Hazards Summary covering July 16–22, 2026.
The report says prolonged below-average rainfall over the past month has caused significant moisture deficits across much of East Africa, including South Sudan, worsening drought conditions in the country’s southern regions.
Despite the dry conditions, inundation continues in the Sudd wetlands, one of the world’s largest wetland ecosystems, maintaining flood risks for surrounding communities. The report also warns that eastern South Sudan is expected to experience abnormally high temperatures exceeding 35°C in the coming week.
FEWS NET noted that rainfall during the past week remained below average across much of East Africa, with rainfall deficits extending into southeastern Sudan and South Sudan. Over the past 30 days, widespread moisture shortages have intensified, although some parts of southern South Sudan recorded localized rainfall surpluses.
Looking ahead, forecasts indicate below-normal rainfall across eastern South Sudan, while southern parts of the country could receive modest rainfall above seasonal averages. However, the expected rainfall is unlikely to fully offset the prolonged moisture deficits already affecting crops, pasture, and water availability.
The weather outlook comes as humanitarian agencies continue monitoring the impacts of climate shocks across South Sudan, where recurring floods and droughts have disrupted agriculture, displaced communities, and heightened food insecurity in recent years.
FEWS NET’s weather hazards outlook is based on current weather observations and short- to medium-range forecasts, assessing potential impacts on crop and pasture conditions rather than providing food security projections.
