Congo: Partial coastal road collapse in Brazzaville January 9 /update 3

Event

Part of Brazzaville's coastal road, located in the city centre, has collapsed on Thursday, January 9, as a result of recent heavy rain and associated landslides, which have affected the capital in recent weeks. As a result, transportation disruptions have been reported in the area as police forces have closed a large part of the road until further notice.

Additional flooding is possible in the coming days and weeks. Associated transportation, business, and power disruptions are anticipated in the affected areas.

Context

As of early January, over 180,000 people have been affected by flooding, which has impacted a large part of the country, notably the northern regions and communities along the Congo and Oubangui rivers. Mudslides in the capital Brazzaville forced over 3000 residents to evacuate from their homes. Areas of Brazzaville's sixth arrondissement also remain underwater.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. 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 or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rainfall.