Côte d'Ivoire: Heavy rain, flooding in Haut-Sassandra and Marahoué amid rainy season

Event

Several localities in the central regions of Haut-Sassandra and Marahoué, including Vavoua, Zuenoula and Bouaflé, have been flooded following the rise of the Bandama River. Continued heavy rainfall may cause landslides and transportation disruptions in affected areas.

Context

Torrential rain is common throughout Côte d'Ivoire during the rainy season, which runs approximately from May to November in the south and from April to October in the north. In June 2018, several people were killed in severe flooding in Abidjan.

Advice

Individuals present in flooded areas are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities, avoid poorer neighborhoods due to infrastructural concerns, and allow for additional travel time. Ensure roads are clear prior to setting out. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.