7 fatalities, 6 missing after widespread floods hit Tanzania
Image credit: NOAA-20/VIIRS. Acquired on April 13, 2023
Heavy rainfall has been affecting western Tanzania, particularly the Rukwa Region, since April 12, 2023, causing river overflows and floods that have resulted in casualties and damage.
As of April 17, media reports have confirmed seven fatalities, with six people still missing, and several more injured. Dozens of people were left homeless after houses and infrastructure were destroyed in the eastern Rukwa Region’s Sumbawanga District.
The Talanda River, in particular, has overflowed due to heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread flooding in the area. The floods have caused severe damage to roads, bridges, and buildings, with many homes being completely destroyed. The local authorities have reported that search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate the missing persons.
The situation in the Rukwa Region is expected to worsen, as heavy rainfall is forecasted for the next 24 hours. This has caused concern among the authorities, who have urged residents to take necessary precautions and evacuate to safer locations if necessary.
References:
1 Tanzania – Floods — DG ECHO – April 17, 2023
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