26 Apr 2022 | 11:47 AM UTC
Rwanda: Disruptions ongoing in multiple regions due to flooding as of April 26; further adverse weather forecast
Disruptions ongoing across parts of Rwanda due to flooding as of April 26; further rainfall and thunderstorms forecast through April 30.
Event
Disruptions are ongoing across parts of Rwanda as of April 26 due to flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. The most severe downpours occurred April 23 across several districts. Authorities have reported 11 weather-related fatalities across four districts, as well as 13 injuries. Seven of the fatalities and one of the injuries occurred in Nyamasheke District in Western Province; two fatalities and four injuries in Kicukiro District in Kigali Province; one fatality and three injuries in Gasabo District in Kigali Province; one fatality and four injuries in Ngororero District in Western Province; and one injury in Rulindo District in Northern Province. Around 100 homes and several roads across the country have also been damaged by flooding and landslides. Six bridges were destroyed in Gasabao and Nyarugenge districts in Kigali Province.
The Rwanda Meteorology Agency has forecast thunderstorms across much of Rwanda April 26 and has issued an advisory for heavy rainfall through April 27. The agency warns that increased precipitation is expected through April 30, especially in parts of Northern and Western provinces. Further downpours could trigger additional flooding in areas where the ground is already saturated; this may hamper ongoing response and recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
