Niger: Authorities issue flood warning for Niamey September 5

Event

Nigerien authorities issued a flood warning for the capital city of Niamey on Tuesday, September 5. Officials issued a "yellow alert" (the lowest of three levels) for areas around the Niger River, including Niamey, citing concerns that a sudden rise in water levels of more than one meter could lead to significant flooding.

Context

Flooding is common in Niger during the rainy season, which lasts from June to September. 

According to the Civil Protection Department, floods have already killed at least 44 people and affected more than 77,000 people across the country since June.

Advice

Individuals present in areas affected by heavy rains are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities and to monitor the situation via local media and weather reporting outlets. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.