DRC: Disruptions due to landslide ongoing in Dibaya-Lubwe, Kwilu Province, as of April 15

Disruptions are ongoing in Dibaya-Lubwe, in Kwilu Province's Idiofa Territory, as of April 15. The landslide occurred April 13 following heavy rainfall overnight April 12-13. The heavy downpours caused parts of the bank of the Kasai River to collapse, burying dozens of people in Dibaya-Lubwe. As of April 15, authorities have reported at least 15 fatalities due to the landslide; at least seven others were injured and around 50 more remain missing. Response operations are ongoing in the area and the death toll will likely rise in the coming hours and days. Further isolated thunderstorms are forecast in the region over the coming days; additional downpours could trigger further landslides and hamper ongoing response operations.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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.

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