17 Dead by Drowning as Euphrates Flood Toll Mounts in Deir Ez-Zour

Welat TV – Erbil

Fayez Abbas, head of the Emergency Response Committee in Deir Ez-Zour Governorate, said that 25 drowning incidents have been recorded in the aftermath of the Euphrates River flooding, resulting in the deaths of 17 people, including 14 children.

Abbas noted that most of the incidents occurred due to failure to comply with safety instructions, particularly swimming in unsafe areas, rather than as a direct result of the flooding itself. He added that several individuals had been rescued by boat crews and divers.

He explained that approximately 20,000 dunums of agricultural land had been inundated, with several areas affected, most notably Khasham, Hajin, al-Kharita, Tibni, and Muhaymidah. A committee is set to be formed to assess the damage and compensate those affected according to categories based on land ownership and crop type. Special compensation will be provided for wheat crops, while other crops will undergo separate assessments.

Abbas also stated that 83 water stations had gone out of service due to the flooding, with 33 stations restored to operation so far. Efforts to reinforce earthen embankments protecting the stations are continuing. He stressed that the overall situation remains under control, noting that displacement has been concentrated in the Hawijat Saqr area, where three temporary shelter centers have been established.