Niger’s 2024 Floods Claim 400 Lives, Impact Over 1.5 Million People

In 2024, Niger experienced catastrophic flooding that led to 400 fatalities and impacted over 1.5 million individuals. The floods were attributed to exceptionally heavy rainfall, exacerbated by climate change. Significant damage to infrastructure, including historical sites and schools, necessitated substantial shifts in community and governmental response.

Niger’s floods in 2024 resulted in the tragic death of nearly 400 individuals, with an overall impact affecting over 1.5 million people due to unprecedented rainfall, as reported on Saturday. The toll, as stated by Interior Minister Mohamed Toumba, includes 396 fatalities and 405 injuries, along with more than 200,000 households affected totaling approximately 1.5 million individuals.

The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather patterns, including floods and prolonged droughts, has been linked to climate change driven by fossil fuel emissions. The Sahel region’s already dry soil significantly reduces its ability to absorb water, making flooding more likely during heavy rainfall.

Notably, the torrential rainy season last year spanned from June to September and extended to northern arid regions near the Sahara. In Agadez, a UNESCO world heritage site, significant damage occurred to its historical structures, including the Grand Mosque, reflecting the widespread impact of the flooding.

Certain regions recorded exceptional increases in rainfall, up to 200 percent greater than typical amounts, particularly in the southern zones of Dosso, Maradi, and Zinder, as noted by the national weather office. Zinder experienced the collapse of its historic mud brick mosque, disrupting one of the country’s main tourist attractions.

The capital, Niamey, faced significant isolation due to road damage caused by the floods. Furthermore, the destruction of schools and their subsequent use as shelters for displaced populations led to the military junta postponing the school year’s start date until October 28.

The 2024 floods also resulted in the destruction of over 158,000 homes and the death of approximately 31,000 livestock. The critical situation underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies and disaster management planning in vulnerable regions.

The 2024 floods in Niger had devastating consequences, resulting in 400 deaths, displacing over 1.5 million people, and damaging infrastructure. The catastrophic weather events, exacerbated by climate change, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and resilience-building strategies in affected regions. The situation requires immediate attention to mitigate future risks associated with such severe weather occurrences.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com