Mauritania: Heavy rains cause flooding nationwide September 9

Event

Heavy rains have caused flooding across Mauritania as of Wednesday, September 9. A number of roads in Nouakchott were rendered impassable due to flooding which resulted from rains on Saturday, September 5, and floodwaters cut off the districts of El Mina, Riyadh, and Sebkha. Similar flood-related incidents were reported in other areas of the country. Floodwaters cut off parts of Adel Bagrou (Hodh Ech Chargui region) and in Sélibaby (Guidimaka region), schools were made to close due to disruptions caused by flooding. In the town of Rosso (Trarza region), authorities evacuated a number of families following the inundation of homes.

Disruptions to transportation, business, and utilities are likely.

Context

Flooding can occur during the July to October wet season and seriously damage road infrastructure

Advice

Those in Mauritania are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.