Flooding Kills 59 in Côte d’Ivoire

At least 59 people have died in flooding across Côte d’Ivoire since the rainy season began in mid-May, government spokesperson Amadou Coulibaly said.

Coulibaly gave the figure after a cabinet meeting on July 2, saying heavier-than-usual rainfall had contributed to a high number of deaths early in the season.

The deaths were linked to flooding, landslides and mudslides in several areas after days of heavy rain.

Abidjan, the country’s commercial capital, has been among the areas most affected.

Coulibaly said the highest number of deaths was recorded in Attécoubé, where about 20 people died after some residents returned to areas previously cleared by authorities.

He said no deaths were recorded in communities classified as high risk where residents obeyed evacuation orders.

Officials said affected areas also included Cocody, Bingerville, Treichville, Songon and other parts of the Abidjan district.

AP reported that flooding and landslides had damaged houses in informal settlements in Attécoubé.

Several days of rain also flooded residential areas and disrupted movement on major roads, according to Xinhua.

Flooding is a recurring problem in Abidjan, where rapid urban growth has contributed to informal housing in areas exposed to flooding.

Authorities have urged residents to follow safety instructions and leave zones identified as dangerous.

The rainy season is expected to continue, with officials warning that further heavy rainfall could affect coastal areas and the Abidjan district.

It was not immediately clear whether additional evacuation measures or emergency interventions would be introduced.

SOURCE: AFP, Reuters, AP, Xinhua