Burundi: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in parts of Cibitoke Province as of early April 3

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Cibitoke Province as of early April 3. Heavy rainfall resulted in the Rugogo River overflowing. The resultant floodwaters collapsed and flooded two gold mines March 31. As of April 2, authorities have confirmed 13 fatalities; two other gold miners remain missing and are presumed dead.

Additional heavy rainfall is likely during the remainder of Burundi's rainy season through May. Further heavy downpours could cause additional flooding and landslides, especially in areas where the ground is already saturated by previous rainfall, as well as hamper ongoing response and recovery operations.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional landslides and 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 rain 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

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.