Mercy Corps Warns of Devastating Humanitarian Consequences Following Nova Kakhovka Dam Break

KYIV -  Mercy Corps is closely monitoring the humanitarian consequences of today’s destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine and determining ways to support the immediate needs of thousands of affected people. Communities downstream from the dam are beginning to face flooding, with thousands evacuated, and the potential for widespread environmental damage. 

Samir Chalhoub, Mercy Corps regional Policy & Advocacy Advisor for Ukraine says: 

“The devastating humanitarian consequences of the dam’s destruction are undeniable. As we speak, thousands of individuals are evacuating their homes with minimal belongings, and we are assessing ways to ensure their urgent needs are met. 

The consequences have the potential for widespread damage, displacement along the Dnipro river, and an environmental crisis. We reiterate that international humanitarian law must be respected. Civilians and civilian infrastructure are not and should never be targets.”

Mercy Corps is present in Odesa and supports national organizations, including those providing humanitarian support in areas impacted by the dam break.

About Mercy Corps in Ukraine

Mercy Corps has been responding in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war in February 2022. The team is providing emergency assistance to refugees in neighboring countries and people displaced inside Ukraine so they can meet their basic survival needs. We also fund local  organizations that know their community best and are working quickly to address their most urgent needs. In 2022, Mercy Corps and its partners reached more than 2 million people in Ukraine and neighboring countries with emergency cash, food, psychosocial support, information campaigns and other urgent assistance.