20 Sep 2023 | 05:38 AM UTC
Ethiopia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Gambela Region as of early Sept. 20
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across Gambela Region, Ethiopia, as of early Sept. 20. Evacuations reported.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in Gambella Region as of early Sept. 20. Heavy rainfall in the highlands resulted in several rivers overflowing, including Akobo, Alwero, Baro, and Gilona. At least nine districts across the region have flooded, including Gambella City. The flooding has caused widespread damage to homes, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure in the affected regions. Thousands of people have been displaced, and evacuations are ongoing. Disruptions in flood-affected areas will probably persist as response and recovery operations continue and river levels rise.
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
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. 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, evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains 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 water-borne 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- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
