Rwanda: Landslides kill 18 in Northern and and Western provinces on May 5-6 /update 1

Event

Torrential rains and consequent landslides in the Northern and Western provinces of Rwanda left at least 18 people dead on Saturday, May 5, and Sunday, May 6. Transportation disruptions are to be expected in affected areas and associated power blackouts cannot be ruled out. Further rainfall is forecast in the abovementioned areas over the coming days, which may cause additional disruptions.

Context

Storms and severe floods regularly impact Rwanda during the rainy seasons (from February to April and again from November to January). Flooding can cause landslides, especially in rural areas.

Advice

Individuals present in Rwanda are advised to avoid areas prone to landslides and to adhere to all instructions issued by the authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rain.