Tanzania: Heavy rainfall and flooding leave 14 dead in Handeni district October 27

Event

Floodwaters swept away a car in Handeni district in the morning (local time) on Saturday, October 26, killing all ten of the vehicle's passengers. On Sunday, October 27, four more people were reported dead as a result of flooding across Handeni district. As of Sunday, 44 people have been killed by flooding caused by recent heavy rainfall across Tanzania. The Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) issued an alert on Thursday, October 24, warning of heavy rain expected to continue in parts of the country until Tuesday, October 29, at the earliest.

Associated power outages and disruptions to transportation and business services are possible in areas forecast to be affected by rain and flooding over the coming hours and days.  

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, confirm road conditions before setting out, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.