DRC: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, as of Jan. 6

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in the city of Bukavu and surrounding areas in South Kivu Province as of Jan. 6. Reports indicate at least nine flood-related fatalities have occurred and others are still missing following heavy rainfall late Jan. 4. Significant material damage has also been reported and a number of people have been displaced. Several roads have been made impassable by the floodwaters, including sections of the N2 highway. Among the affected areas are Independence Square in the city center and parts of the communes of Kadutu and Ibanda. Disruptions in flood-affected areas are expected to continue for some time as response and recovery operations continue. Further isolated thunderstorms are forecast in the Bukavu area through at least Jan. 17, and heavy downpours associated with the storms could trigger additional flooding as well as hamper ongoing relief efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

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. 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.