New research highlights the impact of severe flooding on international travel, healthcare access, and emergency assistance operations
Travel risk intelligence provider Riskline issued more than 1,300 flood-related alerts worldwide between January and September 2026, highlighting widespread disruption to transport networks and essential services.
The company’s latest Flooding Informer report examines major incidents across Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, warning that the consequences of flooding can persist long after waters recede.
In Nepal, catastrophic flooding in August killed more than 1,400 people and left thousands missing, while monsoon flooding in India’s Assam state affected approximately 1.2 million people.
European transport networks also experienced significant disruption. Storm Harry affected rail and air services in Sicily, while Storm Leonardo forced evacuations in southern Spain and temporarily closed Córdoba Airport.
Across Southern Africa, heavy rainfall and cyclones between December 2025 and February 2026 affected an estimated 1.5 million people.
Beyond immediate travel disruption, Riskline warned of heightened health risks associated with contaminated drinking water, damaged sanitation infrastructure, and reduced access to medical facilities.
The report highlighted 13,158 leptospirosis cases recorded in the Philippines as of 7 October, alongside concerns about mosquito-borne diseases following flooding.
Prolonged infrastructure damage and restricted healthcare access can complicate medical referrals, emergency evacuations, and support for affected travellers.
Riskline recommends monitoring official warnings, reviewing evacuation procedures, and identifying alternative transport arrangements to reduce exposure to flood-related disruption.
Published by ITIJ.
