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Ukraine: Thousands at risk following the Nova Kakhovka Dam burst

DRC is deeply concerned by the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine on Tuesday 6 June, which has put thousands of civilian lives in danger and forced many to flee their homes.

DRC teams are on the ground in Ukraine, ready to support those affected. Based on existing presence in Mykolaiv, Dnipro and Lviv, DRC is working with local authorities and coordinating with other humanitarian actors to provide support. Several DRC teams are ready at transport hubs to meet those evacuated from the flooded areas and to help people register for financial assistance and provide free legal aid support.

The flooding affects an area close to the frontline in Kherson which is highly contaminated with landmines and other Explosive Ordnance (EO). Alongside destruction of homes and property, the widescale flooding is causing the movement of EO, with reports of landmines being carried by the water, causing further risk to civilians as they seek safety. Through its Humanitarian Disarmament & Peacebuilding programme, DRC is providing Explosive Ordnance Risk Education and specialist support to help protect civilians.

The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka Dam is having an immediate and severe impact on the lives of civilians in the area. DRC is also concerned about the long-term impact on homes, properties and livelihoods. DRC teams are present and ready to provide immediate assistance, but further financial support is needed. DRC urges the international community to release emergency funds to allow DRC and other emergency response actors to reach those affected by the flooding and continue to support them, now and in the long-term.