Tunisia: Flash flooding leaves at least five dead in Cap Bon September 22 /update 1

Event

Flash flooding left at least five people dead in Tunisia's Cap Bon peninsula following a storm that struck the region on Saturday, September 22. Damages to homes, roads, bridges, and telecommunications networks have been reported. Though most roads in the affected area were navigable by Sunday, September 23, lingering telecommunications disruptions are expected in the coming days.

Context

Residents have blamed local authorities for allegedly neglecting to repair storm drainage systems in the area ahead of severe storms which have affected the region in recent days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor local weather reports, prepare for flooding-related transportation and telecommunications disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. 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 and chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.