In September 2025, Cabo Verde experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall that triggered widespread flooding across several islands, with Santiago and São Vicente among the worst affected. The intense downpours caused significant material damage, destroyed homes and infrastructure, and forced several hundred families to evacuate to temporary shelters.

Local authorities faced growing challenges as the humanitarian situation deteriorated, particularly in providing safe accommodation and essential supplies to displaced households.
In response, the European Commission’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC), under DG ECHO, activated the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) to request support from participating states. Luxembourg reacted immediately, mobilising in‑kind assistance from its humanitarian stockpile.

Luxembourg provided thermal blankets, a critical relief item for families who had lost household belongings and were staying in temporary shelters exposed to cool nighttime temperatures and high humidity. The blankets offered immediate protection and comfort to vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly and those with health conditions.

The operation, carried out in close coordination with Cabo Verde’s National Civil Protection and Fire Service, ensured that essential items reached affected communities rapidly.