Niger: Heavy rain, deadly flooding in Niamey

Event

Several days of heavy rain has caused severe flooding in various neighborhoods of the capital Niamey, resulting in the deaths of nine children and material damage as of Thursday, June 15. Moreover, the two Nigerian television channels, Télé-Sahel and Tal-TV, have stopped broadcasting since June 13 due to flooding on their premises and subsequent power outages. Further rain and flooding is likely in the coming days, along with associated traffic disruptions. 

Context

Torrential downpours are a frequent occurrence during Niger’s rainy season, which lasts from May to September, and often lead to significant flooding and traffic disruptions. Inadequate construction standards leave occupants at risk of collapsing buildings.

Advice

Individuals present in Niamey are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities (e.g. possible evacuation orders), allow additional time to travel, and monitor the situation via local media and weather reporting outlets. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.