Extremely heavy rains hit Abidjan, causing deadly floods, Ivory Coast

Severe flooding hit Ivory Coast’s largest city, Abidjan after heavy rains triggered devastating floods and landslides on Thursday, June 13, 2024. The floods caused widespread disruption, claiming the lives of at least 8 people, injuring at least 18, and overwhelming the city’s infrastructure. Unconfirmed reports on Monday, June 17, mention as many as 61 fatalities.

Flooding and landslides have killed eight people in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s largest city, following heavy downpours that began on Thursday afternoon, June 13.

The intensity and volume of the rain were extraordinary, with precipitation levels reaching approximately four times the normal amount for this period.

According to the national meteorological service, Sodexam, about a quarter of the rainfall expected over the entire May-June-July rainy season — equivalent to 214 mm (8.4 inches) — fell within just 24 hours.

The torrential rain caused significant disruptions, cutting off roads and hampering movement across various parts of Abidjan. The fire brigade reported that 18 people were evacuated to hospitals due to injuries sustained during the floods and landslides.

The Ivory Coast government issued an orange alert; 3^rd on a 4-tier list of risk alerts, urging citizens to be vigilant as the heavy rains are expected to continue.

The floods claimed the lives of at least 8 people, according to officials on June 16. However, unconfirmed reports on June 17 mention as much as 61 fatalities.

This recent disaster reminds us of last year’s flooding, which resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people across the West African nation.

References:

¹ Flooding, landslides kill eight in Ivory Coast – Punch – June 16, 2024

² Ivory Coast floods kill five – Jamaica observer – June 14, 2024

Featured image credit: CONGOLAIS DE LUXE