Heavy rains from April 16 to 17, 2020 caused severe flooding in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, resulting in significant damage and destruction. As of 20 April, at least 36 were reported dead, 42 injured and more than 77,000 homeless.
According to the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), the city of Uvira and surrounding areas in South Kivu were hardest hit.
The Mulongwe River broke through its banks, causing floods that damaged homes and property. Provincial Governor Theo Cassi said at least 3,500 homes were destroyed. Search work continues to find tenants under the rubble of collapsed houses.
“The Congolese Red Cross, humanitarian organizations and volunteers are looking for missing victims,” the organization said.
The floods killed at least 36 people - 26 of them in the city of Uvira and 6 in the territory of Uvira. More than 40 people were injured, which required hospitalization.
Initial estimates point to 3,500 houses destroyed, 15,000 damaged and 7 damaged or destroyed bridges at Runingu, Luberizi, Sanghe and Luwungi. More than 77,000 people were left homeless as roads were also cut off.
Among the sites severely affected were those of the national water distribution company (Regideso). This not only affected the water supply, but also increased the risk of developing cholera.
