28 Jan 2022 | 11:22 AM UTC
Rwanda: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Jan. 31
Further rainfall and strong winds forecast across much of Rwanda through at least Jan. 31. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing.
Event
The Rwanda Meteorology Agency has forecast strong winds and rainfall across much of Rwanda through at least Jan. 31. Rainfall is forecast in Kigali and Western provinces late Jan. 28. Although cumulative rainfall amounts are expected to decrease towards the end of the month, lingering disruptions are likely to continue in areas already affected by flooding following days of heavy rainfall across parts of the country. Further downpours could exacerbate the situation in these areas.
Severe weather, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds, since Jan. 1 have triggered floods and landslides across western Rwanda. Casualties and damages have occurred in Western and Southern provinces, with the worst-hit districts being Rubavu, Rusizi, Nyabihu, and Ngoroero in Western Province and Muhange, Huye, and Gisagara in Southern Province. As of Jan. 27, 15 people have been killed and 37 others injured in weather-related incidents across these districts, with seven fatalities and 26 injuries caused by lightning. Flooding and landslides have damaged around 130 homes in the region.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
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 and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
