Rwanda: Flooding and landslides kill at least 65 nationwide May 7 /update 2

Event

Flooding and landslides following heavy rain killed at least 65 people across Rwanda overnight (local time) on Wednesday, May 6, to Thursday, May 7. Hundreds of homes, as well as crops, and livestock, were also damaged or destroyed by the floods. The Gakenke district (Northern Province) was the hardest-hit area, reporting 22 deaths. The districts of Musanze, Rulindo,  Rubavu, Nyabihu, Rutsiro, Ngororero, Muhanga, and Ruhango also reported fatalities. Transportation disruption is to be expected in the affected areas, and associated power outages cannot be ruled out.

Further heavy rain is forecast in Kigali and in the Northern Province, as well as in the districts of Rubavu, Nyabihu, Rutsiro, Ngororero, Muhanga, and Ruhango, until Tuesday, May 12.

Context

Storms and severe floods regularly impact Rwanda during the rainy seasons (from February to April and again from November to January). Flooding can cause landslides, especially in rural areas.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions 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.