Heavy Rains Cause Severe Flooding in Kinshasa, DRC, Resulting in Tragedy
Heavy rains have flooded the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, displacing over 5,000 individuals and resulting in at least 72 deaths and 170 injuries. Emergency shelters are being set up, but the forecast for continued rains raises concerns for further devastation.
Severe rains have inundated multiple provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly impacting the capital city of Kinshasa. As reported by the Ministry of Health, over 5,000 residents have been displaced, with at least 72 fatalities and 170 injuries attributed to these heavy rains and ensuing floods, according to Xinhua news agency.
The provinces of Tanganyika and South Kivu in eastern DRC have also experienced substantial damage. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation to determine the extent of humanitarian needs. Shelter and care centers designated for emergency response have been established, primarily in various stadiums throughout Kinshasa.
The Stade des Martyrs, the largest athletic venue in the country, is already accommodating over 4,500 displaced individuals. To manage congestion, authorities are implementing plans to relocate some evacuees to alternate locations. The health ministry has assured the public of its dedication to enhancing multi-sectoral collaboration and ensuring efficient responses to health and humanitarian crises.
The forecast predicts continued heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, heightening concerns regarding potential further devastation in Kinshasa, a city of 17 million inhabitants, which is already compromised due to rapid and uncontrolled urban development. The rainy season in the DRC typically spans from November to May.
The heavy rains in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have caused significant devastation, particularly in Kinshasa, resulting in numerous fatalities and displacements. Local authorities are actively assessing the situation and establishing emergency shelters to assist affected residents. Ongoing rainfall raises concerns for further damage in a rapidly expanding urban environment, emphasizing the need for coordinated health and humanitarian responses during this period.
Original Source: telanganatoday.com
