Côte d'Ivoire: Deadly flooding in Abidjan October 11-13

Event

Torrential rain battered the capital Abidjan between Friday, October 11, and Sunday, October 13. The Audouin and Abobo areas of Abidjan were particularly hard-hit by the rains, which caused heavy flooding and landslides. At least five people were killed in the flooding. Further rainfall and consequent flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions are possible across Abidjan in the coming hours and days.

Context

Torrential rain is common in the south of Côte d'Ivoire, including in Abidjan, during the rainy season (May to November) and can result in major transportation disruptions. This rain often results in flooding as well as mudslides and road closures.

Advice

Individuals present in Abidjan are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. possible evacuation orders), avoid poorer neighborhoods due to infrastructural concerns, and allow for additional travel time. 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.