NIAMEY: Torrential rains in Niger have killed at least 15 more people, regional authorities said on Sunday, the latest casualties of the downpours lashing the African nation since June.
The torrential rains have ravaged Africa’s Sahel region, with Niger suffering the brunt of the adverse weather. As of now, the death toll across the country has risen to at least 217 people. The unprecedented flooding has displaced over 350,000 residents, severely disrupting daily life and infrastructure.
The most recent casualties occurred in Maradi, Niger’s economic capital, which has been among the hardest-hit regions. On Friday, Maradi experienced a staggering 150 millimeters (about six inches) of rainfall within just 90 minutes. The deluge led to catastrophic flooding, causing landslides, collapsing homes, and sweeping away vehicles, motorcycles, and trees.
Images broadcast on local television displayed the ferocity of the floodwaters as they surged through Maradi’s streets. The torrents not only led to the tragic loss of life but also inflicted significant material damage. The region’s governor, Issoufou Mamane, reported that the heavy rains have also resulted in several injuries and considerable destruction of property.
The floods have disrupted essential services in the affected areas, with drinking water and electricity supplies being impacted. Furthermore, transportation has been severely affected; the main route connecting Maradi to the city of Zinder has been compromised by the rising waters.
The rainy season in Niger, which typically spans from June to September, is known for its heavy downpours and resultant hardships. In 2022, floods resulted in 195 deaths and impacted approximately 400,000 people.
