Sudan authorities warn of 'massive' Nile River flooding

By Mohammed Amin

KHARTOUM

Sudan’s Irrigation Ministry on Tuesday warned of the likelihood of “unprecedented” Nile floods in the coming two days.

In a press statement, the ministry warned that the anticipated wave of flooding could be the worst of its kind in more than a century.

“Water levels in the Blue Nile River are at their highest within the past 100 years, exceeding 17 meters near the Ethiopian border,” the statement read.

“Heavy rains on the Ethiopian plateau are expected to raise water levels further in coming days,” it added.

The ministry went on to urge the relevant authorities to take “all necessary measures” to protect people and property from the expected flooding.

It also warned those living near the Nile River -- in capital Khartoum and in other states -- to be particularly cautious.

“Authorities in Khartoum State and people living along the Nile should brace themselves for massive flooding within the next two days,” the ministry said.

More than one third of the Nile’s water emanates from the Blue Nile River, which is in turn fed by rains on the Ethiopian Plateau.