Papua New Guinea: Continuing heavy rains cause 10 fatalities in Chimbu Province April 10 /update 1

Event

Heavy rains, ongoing since early April, caused ten fatalities in Chimbu Province on Friday, April 10, in a large landslide. The rains have also displaced some 85,000 people as of Wednesday, April 15. Severe flooding in the coastal areas of the Gulf Province have forced an estimated 60,000 people to leave their homes, and landslides have displaced another 25,000 in the Gulf Province's highland areas. The Moripi, Toaripi, Taure Lakekamu, Malaluau Urban, Kaipi Melaripi, Kerema Urban, Ihu East, Ihu West, and Baimuru local-level governments have been particularly badly affected.

Many displaced people are currently occupying informal camps running along the main road between the Gulf and Central provinces.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms are expected to continue over the area until at least Friday, April 17.

Associated landslides, storm surge, and transportation and business disruptions are anticipated, as well as disruptions to power and communication services in the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in Papua New Guinea are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate lingering transportation and business disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.