Niger: At least 22 people killed in floods as of August 6 /update 2

Event

According to officials in Niger, at least 22 people have been killed by flooding in recent weeks. In addition, at least 49,845 people have been displaced, mainly in the Maradi, Agadez, and Diffa regions as well as in the capital, Niamey. According to the country's Ministry of Humanitarian Action, over 3000 homes and 4000 hectares (9900 acres) of agricultural land have been destroyed by the heavy rains. Further flooding is possible in the coming days as significant rainfall is forecast through the week of August 13.

Context

Torrential downpours are a frequent occurrence during Niger's rainy season - which lasts from May to September - and often lead to significant flooding and traffic disruptions. Inadequate construction standards leave occupants at risk from collapsing buildings.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned in June that 180,000 people across Niger could be affected by severe flooding during this year's rainy season. In preparation, the Nigerien government has announced the completion of several dikes in its capital, Niamey, to protect an estimated 30,000 people from the flooding of the Niger River.

Advice

Individuals present in Niamey are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. possible evacuation orders), allow additional time to travel, and monitor the situation via local media and weather reporting outlets. Please be advised that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.