Severe Flooding in Niger Displaces Over 1.1 Million Amid Devastation
Severe flooding in Niger has killed 339 people and displaced over 1.1 million since June, with intensive rainfall causing unprecedented destruction. The government has postponed the school year due to damaged facilities, while linked climate change exacerbates extreme weather events in the region. Neighbouring Mali is similarly affected, prompting a request for international aid.
In Niger, severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall has resulted in the deaths of 339 individuals and the displacement of over 1.1 million people since June. The capital, Niamey, has been particularly impacted as homes, livestock, and food supplies have been devastated by the intense weather conditions. The current floods are proving to be far more severe than those experienced in previous years, with certain regions recording rainfall increases of up to 200 percent, according to the national meteorological agency. Flooding is a typical occurrence in Niger, with the rainy season spanning from June to September. However, the extent of the destruction this year is unprecedented. Among the significant losses, a historic mosque in Zinder, the country’s second-largest city and a prominent symbol within the Muslim community, was utterly destroyed; it had been a landmark since the mid-19th century. As a consequence of the flooding, the government has decided to delay the commencement of the school year until late October, due to damage inflicted on many schools and their use as temporary shelters for displaced families. The severe weather conditions underscore a disturbing trend of extreme weather events affecting the Sahel region, which are increasingly linked to climate change. Experts alert that rising carbon emissions from fossil fuels are contributing to longer, more intense rainy seasons across nations like Niger. In comparison, similar weather conditions in 2022 resulted in the deaths of 195 individuals, highlighting the urgent need for improved mitigation efforts to address future floods. Meanwhile, neighboring Mali is also grappling with its own crisis, with over 40 fatalities reported and thousands displaced, leading the government to solicit assistance from the international community, requesting €4.5 million to combat material losses and health risks.
Niger is frequently subject to flooding during its rainy season from June to September, a recurring natural disaster that has intensified in recent years. The increase in rainfall and the scale of devastation observed in 2023 underscore the influence of climate change and its ramifications in the Sahel region. The destruction caused by flooding impacts livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services, necessitating immediate intervention and longer-term strategic planning to manage future risks.
The catastrophic flooding in Niger has resulted in significant casualties and unprecedented displacement, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis within the country. The intensifying weather patterns, linked to climate change, highlight the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and response strategies. The international community’s support is crucial in addressing immediate humanitarian needs and facilitating recovery efforts in both Niger and neighboring Mali.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
