DRC: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Uvira, South Kivu Province, as of Jan. 16

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in the city of Uvira and surrounding areas in South Kivu Province as of Jan. 16. Reports indicate at least one flood-related fatality has occurred and others have been injured following heavy rainfall overnight Jan. 14-15. Significant material damage has also been reported; around 450 people have been displaced due to damaged homes. Several roads have been made impassable by the floodwaters, including sections of the N5 highway. Largely drier conditions are expected in the region over the coming days; however, isolated thunderstorms are possible Jan. 19-22. Further heavy downpours associated with the storms could trigger additional flooding and hamper ongoing recovery efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

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 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.

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.