Niger’s 2024 Floods Result in 400 Deaths and Over 1.5 Million Affected

In 2024, floods in Niger resulted in approximately 400 deaths and affected over 1.5 million individuals. Heavy rains, driven by climate change, caused extensive damage across various regions, particularly in Zinder and Agadez. The floods also led to significant infrastructure destruction, delaying the school year and impacting local communities severely.

In Niger, nearly 400 individuals have lost their lives due to devastating floods that occurred in 2024, with over 1.5 million people affected. The Interior Minister, Mohamed Toumba, reported that the floods resulted in a death toll of 396, alongside 405 injuries, severely impacting more than 200,000 households.
Climate scientists have indicated that climate change, exacerbated by human-induced emissions, is contributing to an rise in severe weather events, including torrential rains and droughts.
The exceptional rainy season from June to September last year affected even the arid regions of northern Niger. Notably, the UNESCO-listed Agadez historic town suffered damage, including its 16th-century Grand Mosque.
Certain regions received rainfall exceeding previous averages by 200 percent, significantly impacting the southern areas of Dosso, Maradi, and Zinder, as well as the western region of Tahoua. In Zinder, a mud-brick mosque dating back to the 19th century collapsed due to heavy rains.
Furthermore, the capital, Niamey, experienced road damage that temporarily isolated the city from other areas of the country. The extensive destruction to schools, which served as temporary shelters for displaced individuals, prompted delays in the academic year until October 28.
Last year’s flood and rains resulted in the destruction of over 158,000 homes, along with the loss of 31,000 livestock, indicating a profound impact on local communities.

The flooding in Niger in 2024 has resulted in significant casualties and widespread devastation. With nearly 400 fatalities and millions affected, this disaster highlights the growing intensity of climate-related events due to human influences. The damage to infrastructure, such as schools and historical sites, is expected to have long-lasting effects on the impacted communities. Immediate assistance and long-term solutions are critical to mitigate further risks and rebuild affected areas.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com