Niger: At least 42 people killed in floods June-September /update 4

Event

According to the UN, at least 42 people have been killed by flooding since June (as of late September). In addition, at least 205,000 people have been displaced, mainly in the Maradi, Agadez, Zinder, and Diffa regions. According to the UN, nearly 17,000 homes and 8000 hectares (19,000 acres) of agricultural land have been destroyed by the heavy rains.

Context

Torrential downpours are a frequent occurrence during Niger's rainy season - which lasts from May to September - and often lead to significant flooding and traffic disruptions. Inadequate construction standards leave occupants at risk from collapsing buildings.

Advice

Individuals present in Niamey are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. possible evacuation orders), allow additional time to travel in flood-hit areas, and monitor the situation via local media and weather reporting outlets. Be advised that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.