Severe Flooding in Kinshasa: Over 70 Lives Lost Amidst Heavy Rains

Heavy rains have inundated Kinshasa, DRC, resulting in over 70 fatalities and displacing more than 5,000 individuals. Emergency shelters have been established, but ongoing rain poses additional risks. The government aims to improve coordination in response to this humanitarian crisis.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently grappling with severe flooding as heavy rains devastate the capital, Kinshasa. The Ministry of Health has reported that 11 health zones are impacted, leading to the displacement of over 5,000 individuals. Tragically, at least 72 lives have been lost, and 170 individuals have sustained injuries due to the torrential downpours, as noted by Xinhua news agency.

Other provinces, including Tanganyika and South Kivu in eastern DRC, have also experienced significant flooding. Local authorities are actively assessing the damage and the humanitarian needs resulting from this natural disaster. Emergency shelters and care centers have been set up within Kinshasa’s stadiums to accommodate those affected by the flooding.

Given that the Stade des Martyrs, the largest sports facility in the country, is housing over 4,500 displaced persons, officials have initiated a decongestion plan to relocate some individuals to alternate venues. The health ministry is committed to enhancing multi-sectoral coordination and ensuring effective responses to the ongoing health and humanitarian crises.

With forecasts predicting continued heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, concerns for further destruction grow in a city of approximately 17 million inhabitants, which is already susceptible due to rapid and unregulated urban growth. The DRC’s rainy season typically extends from November to May, raising alarms about future flooding events.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing a humanitarian crisis due to severe flooding in Kinshasa and nearby provinces. With numerous casualties and thousands of individuals displaced, emergency measures are underway. The health ministry is focused on coordinating responses, while the threat of continued heavy rains poses further risks to the region. With the onset of the rainy season, vigilance and preparedness are crucial.

Original Source: telanganatoday.com