22 Oct 2019 | 02:59 AM UTC
Niger: Flooding in Diffa region displaces over 23,000 people as of October 19 /update 2
Recent flooding in Diffa region displaces over 23,000 people as of October 19; further evacuations and damages possible
Event
Officials in Diffa region announced on Saturday, October 19, that over 23,000 people have been displaced since early October due to flooding. Heavy rains cause the Komadougou Yobe river to overflow, inundating villages and fields and damaging crops around Lake Chad. According to local officials, two villages near the city of Diffa have been completely submerged and 2500 homes were destroyed. Further evacuations are possible over the coming days, along with associated transportation and business disruptions.
Context
Over 211,000 people have been affected by seasonal rains in Niger between June and September 2019. The government has confirmed at least 57 fatalities and more than 16,375 homes have been destroyed.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions and flight reservations before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
