Djibouti: Heavy rains cause flooding and power outage in the capital April 20-21

Event

Torrential rain that affected the capital Djibouti overnight (local time) on Monday, April 20, and Tuesday, April 21, has caused widespread flooding across the capital, resulting in severe damages to infrastructure. Significant transportation disruptions along with power outage have been reported across the city on Tuesday.

Further heavy rainfall, flooding, and associated disruptions, including road closures and power outage, are expected to persist over the near term.  

Advice

Individuals in affected areas 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. Floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rainfall.