Angola: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across multiple regions as of April 24

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across multiple regions of Angola as of April 24. Heavy rainfall since early April has affected several provinces, with casualties and widespread damage reported. As of April 24, authorities have reported at least 54 fatalities across the country and damage to more than 4,000 homes. Over 450 people have been injured, and around 44,000 people have been affected. The worst-affected province is Luanda Province, where at least six fatalities were reported following heavy rainfall April 18-20. Thousands of homes were damaged, and many roads were left unpassable. Previous storms and showers caused damage and fatalities in the province April 12-13. Other provinces significantly affected by the flooding in recent days and weeks include Namibe, Lunda Norte, Lunda Sul, Malanje, Cuanza Norte, and Moxico. The National Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics (INAMET) has forecast further storms and rainfall across much of the country over the coming days. Further downpours are likely during the remainder of the rainy season through May.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is possible in areas with easily overwhelmed or lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense 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 impacts utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render additional bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Residual rainwater 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 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.

Health
Although a secondary concern, the threat of disease outbreaks cannot be discounted in the coming days and weeks. Backflow from drains that have 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.

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. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.