At least 6 dead after days of heavy rains trigger flooding in Tunisia

At least six people lost their lives in deadly flooding after heavy rains fell for six days across Tunisia. Numerous regions in the country were hit by severe weather, from north to the east.

Heavy rains began around September 5, drenching Kairouan with 88.9 mm (3.5 inches) of rain in 24 hours.

According to the civil protection agency, the affected governorates were Monastir, Jendouba, Mahdia, Sidi Bouzid, and Tunis.

Sidi Bouzid registered 58 mm (2.3 inches), Monastir 47.8 mm (1.9 inches), and Mahdia 44.4 mm (1.7 inches) during the same period.

In four separate days between September 5 to 11, Mahdia recorded more than 40 mm (1.8 inches) of rain in 24 hours.

Flooding struck several districts of the capital Tunis on September 10. Some areas were submerged in 1 m (3 feet) floods, leaving roads impassable.

Floodwaters caused damage to homes, market stalls, and a hospital.

The civil protection agency confirmed at least six fatalities, including three children. Two of the victims-- aged four and 10, died in the seaside town of Monastir, while another four-year-old died in Jendouba.

Featured image credit: Dr. Oula Amrouni