DRC: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in eastern regions as of May 8 /update 1

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across eastern regions of the DRC as of May 8. Heavy rainfall in recent days has led to flooding and landslides occurring across parts of the region. Parts of South Kivu province have been worst affected after heavy rainfall May 4-5 caused rivers to overflow near the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi in Kalehe Territory, causing severe damage to homes and infrastructure. Several roads in the region have also been damaged by the severe weather, including sections of National Road 2 connecting Bukavu and Goma and National Road 3 in the Kahuzi Biega National Park in North Kivu Province. Heavy downpours also damaged around 1,000 temporary shelters accommodating internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Savo in Ituri province's Djugu Territory on May 3.

As of May 8, the death toll across eastern DRC stands at around 400 according to local authorities, with thousands still missing; casualty numbers will likely increase in the coming days. Further isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of the region through at least May 10. 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.