Sao Tome and Principe: Flood-related disruptions across Sao Tome, as of Dec. 30

Event

Heavy rainfall and flooding Dec. 28-29 have caused damage across Sao Tome as of Dec. 30. Several bridges have been either damaged or destroyed, including in Lemba and Cantagalo. Roads across the country have also been impacted, disrupting traffic. At least six fishermen are reportedly missing. Two children have been killed in flood-related events. Officials have declared a state of calamity in response to the damage. The decree likely provides emergency service responders with additional powers and resources to respond to the damage. The order runs through mid-January.

Although a secondary concern, the threat of disease outbreaks cannot be discounted in the coming days and weeks. Backflow from drains that has mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat. Further heavy rainfall is likely through the coming weeks; any downpours could exacerbate current impacts.

Advice

Seek updated information on road conditions before departure; some roads could be remain closed for days. Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistical disruptions. Do not drive on flooded roads or past flood barriers. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the ongoing threat of areal flooding.

Keep important documents in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks. Keep any necessary medications in a waterproof container.