Niger: Dozens of residents displaced as heavy rains cause flooding in Niamey August 24

Event

Prime Minister Brigi Rafini visited several areas of Niamey on Monday, August 24, where dozens of residents have been displaced by flooding in recent days. Multiple areas in the south of the capital, particularly in the Aeroport districts around Diori Hamani International Airport (NIM), were reported to have been the worst affected by flooding as the Niger River burst its banks after several days of sustained heavy rainfall. Roads in several other parts of the city, including the Harobanda neighborhood on the west bank of the river, were also reported to have been blocked or damaged by floodwaters.

Further localized disruption from flooding is likely in southern Niamey in the near term.

Context

Flooding occurs with some frequency in Niamey during the wet season from June to October. During this period, flash floods can occur with little or notice, inundating roads and washing away poorly constructed buildings in the city's less-developed suburbs. The Niger River frequently bursts its banks following periods of heavy rainfall, but authorities lack the resources to effectively mitigate the impact of flooding.

Advice

Those in Niamey are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate possible transportation disruptions and power outages, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.