Ethiopia: Severe weather likely to affect Addis Ababa from Aug. 19; flash flooding and travel delays possible

Event

Further heavy rainfall and flooding are likely over the coming days in Addis Ababa as of Aug. 19. Torrential rains in the city triggered severe flooding Aug. 17-18, killing at least seven people and injuring several others. Authorities also reported severe infrastructure damages in some affected areas.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding. Due to poor stormwater management in some areas, even minor rainfall accumulation could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding.

Transport and Utilities
Floodwaters could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in the affected area. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flight delays and cancellations are also possible at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD).

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions improve - it could take days for workers to clear debris after floodwaters recede. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair and reconstruction efforts may exacerbate any residual disruptions. Electricity and telecommunications services outages are possible where significant flooding or landslides have occurred.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where severe weather has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.