DRC: Disruptions due to landslides and flooding ongoing in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, as of Dec. 12

Disruptions due to landslides and flooding are ongoing in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, as of Dec. 12. Heavy rainfall overnight Dec. 10-11 triggered landslides in Ndendere and Panzi districts in Ibanda Township; authorities reported at least 15 fatalities after several homes where damaged in the affected areas. Response operations are ongoing following the landslides, and casualty figures could rise in the coming days. Houses, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure have also been damaged by flooding in Nyalukemba District in Ibanda Commune and parts of Kadutu Commune. Further adverse weather is forecast in Bukavu in the coming days, with isolated showers and thunderstorm activity expected through at least Dec. 19.

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. Further 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.

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. 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 and landslide damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.