Tanzania: Flooding continues nationwide April 17 /update 1

Event

At least 15 people have died since Saturday, April 14, due to flooding in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Manyara, Tabora, and Zanzibar as of Tuesday, April 17. Significant flood-related material damages were also reported in the abovementioned areas, leading to the destruction of at least 250 houses. The Tanzania Meteorological Agency has maintained weather advisories for the regions of Tabora, Mara, Kilimanjaro, Morogoro, Pemba, Dar es Salaam, Pwani, Lindi, and Mtwara. Further flooding is likely in these areas, as heavy rain is forecast to continue in the coming days.

Context

Heavy rains and flooding is common in Tanzania during the during the annual rainy season (March to May).

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. 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. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tend to rise after periods of heavy rains.