The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has set a trigger date of 1 November 2026 for an imminent DREF operation in Kenya. Forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department and NOAA indicate above-average rainfall across eastern, northeastern, coastal, and central counties. This sustained wet weather is expected to cause soil saturation, riverine flooding, and flash floods, particularly in arid areas and urban centers with poor drainage. The operation aims to address increased flood risks and access disruptions as cumulative rainfall peaks in early November.
In January and February 2026, heavy rainfall and snowmelt caused severe flooding across North Macedonia, particularly in Kičevo and Ohrid. The Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia launched a DREF operation to assist vulnerable households after local authorities requested support. The emergency displaced more than 270 people in Kičevo and damaged homes, roads, and businesses. The Red Cross provided food, hygiene items, and water to approximately 200 households. The prolonged weather events exceeded local response capacities, necessitating international humanitarian aid to address immediate needs and support early recovery efforts.
The Zambia Red Cross Society has activated its Early Action Protocol for Drought 1.0 in response to forecasted severe dry conditions. According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the decision follows projections of below-normal rainfall during the 2026/2027 season driven by strong El Niño patterns. The initiative targets vulnerable households in Southern and Western provinces, aiming to provide cash assistance, agricultural inputs, and water access before peak drought impacts arrive between December 2026 and February 2027. This anticipatory action seeks to mitigate rising food insecurity and protect livelihoods in high-risk districts.
A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Bogo City in the Philippines on September 30, 2025. The shallow tremor caused building collapses, road destruction, and power outages in northern Cebu and neighboring areas. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the event was caused by the Bogo Bay Fault. The disaster affected Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas regions. Authorities issued and later lifted a tsunami advisory. Over 7,000 aftershocks were recorded within the first two days, with ongoing seismic activity remaining below magnitude 3.0.
In Marsabit County, Kenya, prolonged drought has destroyed livestock for pastoralist families, leaving them without food or income. Concern Worldwide, funded by the Kenya Humanitarian Fund, provides nutrition and hygiene support to affected communities. Boku Wako Elema, a mother of six, lost all her animals and now struggles to feed her children. Health workers identified acute malnutrition in her youngest child, who is receiving therapeutic food. The aid organization also supplies water treatment items and hygiene education to help families stay healthy during the crisis.
One year after Hurricane Melissa struck eastern Cuba, the province of Granma continues to recover from catastrophic flooding. The storm, which made landfall on October 29, 2025, triggered massive river overflow that damaged over 8,000 homes. The Cuban Red Cross reports that thousands of families lost their possessions, with some left with only the clothes they wore. Relief efforts involved amphibious vehicles and helicopters to evacuate trapped residents. Dr. Carlos Ricardo Pérez Díaz notes that while 70 tons of aid have arrived, needs remain high. Recovery is hindered by energy crises, though solar systems are now powering key health clinics in the region.
In a region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, health officials and the World Health Organization are using community dialogue to combat Ebola misinformation. Local religious leaders and school administrators now encourage early medical care after witnessing proper treatment at Ebola centers. The Ministry of Public Health, supported by WHO, organizes discussions with religious and traditional leaders to address rumors about contamination and patient deaths. These efforts have improved acceptance of safe burials and case referrals. A senior medical officer states that listening to concerns helps rebuild trust and encourages community participation in the response against the Bundibugyo virus outbreak.
One year after Hurricane Melissa struck eastern Cuba, the Cuban Red Cross has assisted over 35,000 people in Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba. Supported by the IFRC, the organization has distributed medicines, water, and psychosocial aid. Severe energy constraints and nationwide blackouts continue to hinder recovery efforts. To maintain operations, the Cuban Red Cross has installed 14 photovoltaic systems in health clinics. Dr Carlos Pérez Díaz states that these energy solutions are vital for keeping essential services running despite fuel shortages. The IFRC appeal for this response remains significantly underfunded, threatening future aid distributions.
Christian Aid Zimbabwe is recruiting a consultant to document three 'cases of change' for its Irish Civil Society Partnership programme. The initiative, running from 2023 to 2027, operates in eight districts including Mutare, Bubi, and Goromonzi. The selected expert must analyze evidence regarding peacebuilding, governance, and climate resilience. Proposals are due by November 3, 2026, for a budget of €10,000. The consultant will conduct field research and facilitate workshops to finalize reports by December 31, 2026. This work aims to highlight systemic shifts in civil society engagement across Zimbabwe.
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