ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – The US State Department on Tuesday extended condolences to the victims of Sulaimani’s devastating floods that claimed several lives and caused significant material damage.

“The United States offers our condolences for the loss of life and livelihood in the Sulaimani Province,” a US State Department spokesperson told The New Region, adding that Washington “will continue to monitor the situation closely.”

Powerful flash floods struck the Kurdistan Region last week, centered around Sulaimani’s Chamchamal district, the town of Takia, as well as Shorsh subdistrict, as authorities scrambled to assist citizens.

The floods left at least four people dead and dozens more injured or missing. It also left devastating financial damages in its wake, with hundreds of properties damaged and many families having gone homeless.

In Chamchamal alone, around 500 homes were damaged, more than 100 shops and several government buildings were flooded, dozens of vehicles were swept away, and electricity and internet services were cut. Floodwaters also submerged hundreds of fish ponds.

Local relief campaigns were launched to provide food and basic supplies to affected families.

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has formed compensation committees in affected areas to assess damages and support victims.

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani directed authorities to support relief efforts, offering his condolences to the victims impacted by the disaster.