At least 45 killed as floods and landslides hit Luanda and Benguela, Angola
Deadly floods and landslides triggered by heavy rain from April 4 to 6, 2026, hit western Angola, killing at least 45 people and affecting more than 51 000 across several provinces. The worst impacts were reported in Benguela and Luanda, where homes were destroyed, roads cut off, and critical infrastructure damaged.
Image credit: Wion (stillshot)
The death toll stood at 45 as of April 8, including 26 deaths in Benguela, 13 in Luanda, four in Cuanza Sul, and two in Malanje. Authorities also reported several people missing and injuries in the hardest-hit provinces.
Flooding destroyed 607 homes and inundated 9 511 others, affecting a total of 51 275 people. Authorities said floodwaters also damaged schools, health facilities, power infrastructure, and roads, while landslides were reported in multiple areas.
Flooding caused extensive disruption to transport and access routes in Benguela Province, according to local authorities and media. Road links were cut in several areas, while flood damage also affected rail operations and delayed the movement of goods and people.
In Luanda, some of the worst flooding was reported in districts including Cazenga, Viana, and Kilamba Kiaxi, where intense short-duration rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems and caused rapid urban flooding.
The Angolan government opened temporary accommodation centers in schools and community halls, where displaced residents received food rations, blankets, and medical support. President João Lourenço said the country was in a “race against the clock” to rescue and assist affected residents.
Authorities in Benguela postponed the return to school because of flood damage and safety concerns.
References:
1 Angola – Severe weather and floods – DG ECHO – April 14, 2026
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