In recent days, heavy rains have caused extensive flooding across numerous provinces in Iran, leaving communities isolated and infrastructure overwhelmed. This latest natural disaster has underscored longstanding issues stemming from inadequate investment in infrastructure, which intensifies the impact of each flood and often leaves affected communities with minimal support. Official relief efforts have been limited, and reports show that substantial parts of the country are struggling to manage the severe damage caused by the floods.
In South Khorasan, cities including Sarayan, Ferdows, Eshqabad, Tabas, and Bashravieh saw rivers overflowing, leading to road closures and severely disrupting daily life. With streets submerged and major routes blocked, residents have been left stranded. Despite the scale of disruption, meaningful relief has been sparse. Ham Mihan Online reports that these areas have become isolated due to poor flood defenses and inadequate drainage systems, which have long been neglected by the state.
The situation is similarly severe in Fars Province, where Shiraz, the provincial capital, was hit by intense rainfall on Thursday, leading to widespread flooding across its main streets and intersections. According to ISNA, the martyr Sheikhi Bridge, Yadegar Imam Bridge, and the Rishmak intersection were particularly affected, as floodwaters surged through major traffic arteries. Underpasses and roads alongside the Shiraz riverbed were closed, with authorities issuing only basic advisories as relief efforts were largely ceremonial.
In Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, the flooding has left parts of the region without power or running water. Power outages and extensive water damage were reported across Mahmoudabad, Dasht-e Sisakht, and other areas, with limited assistance from emergency services. Rainfall measurements reached over 70mm in certain areas, yet adequate drainage systems remain largely absent, leaving local communities increasingly vulnerable.
#Iran News:
Flash Floods in Jiroft Leave 15 Dead Amidst Mismanagement and Neglecthttps://t.co/zZhdgblJKE— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) October 1, 2024
Flooding has also impacted the northern regions of North Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, and Semnan, where heavy rains overwhelmed local infrastructure. In Neishabur, more than 16mm of rain fell within 24 hours, causing flash floods across the city and stranding residents. In Semnan, one of the most significant incidents occurred along the Miami to Rijab Road, where nearly 200 people were stranded when floodwater trapped over 100 vehicles near the Kalshour Bridge. Although the Red Crescent provided temporary shelter in local mosques and distributed emergency food supplies, these short-term fixes highlighted the lack of sustained infrastructure improvements, as reported by Mashregh News on October 26.
Additionally, Mazandaran and Golestan Provinces face worsening flood risks due to rising levels of the Caspian Sea, with strong winds and high waves predicted to continue over the coming days. The Iranian Meteorological Organization issued a marine warning for these coastal regions, cautioning of potential dangers to fishing operations, fish farms, and recreational activities in Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan. However, preventive measures, including coastal reinforcements, remain inadequate as these communities brace for continued high winds and hazardous waves.
As with past natural disasters, Iranian officials have largely responded to the flooding through photo opportunities and limited, ceremonial relief, while systemic neglect of critical infrastructure remains unaddressed. Roads, bridges, drainage systems, and urban infrastructure have not seen significant improvements, leaving communities across the country increasingly exposed. With the potential for further rainfall and flooding, residents are left to rely primarily on their own resilience in the face of escalating challenges.