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Accident – Death – Obituary News : Intense Rainfall and Flooding Devastate Cibitoke, Burundi
Cibitoke, Burundi – A severe weather event, characterized by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and subsequent floods, has wreaked havoc in the province of Cibitoke. The calamity unfolded on the 26th and 27th of October, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. While preceding floods were reported earlier, the situation in Cibitoke stands out as the most severe, with an estimated 1,590 individuals affected across the communes of Buganda, Murwi, and Rugombo.
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The catastrophe was largely predicted, as the country’s meteorological agencies, IGEBU and ICPAC, had forecasted above-normal rainfall for the OND season (October-November-December). According to these forecasts, all regions in Burundi were anticipated to experience extreme levels of precipitation, with a probability exceeding 50%. It was projected that certain provinces would witness rainfall exceeding 200mm. Sadly, these predictions have come true, leading to alarming floods and landslides in various parts of the country.
In the aftermath of the disaster, hundreds of households in Cibitoke have been displaced, seeking shelter with host families. The displaced individuals have been forced to leave their homes due to the devastating impact of the floods and landslides. Burundi Red Cross branches are actively engaged in addressing the situation and remain vigilant in monitoring future flood events, as November’s forecasts continue to raise concerns.
The province of Cibitoke has been the hardest hit so far, with reports of localized floods causing significant damage. Since October 2023, heavy rainfall and strong winds have claimed the lives of seven people and injured 34 others in the provinces of Makamba, Ngozi, and Cibitoke. Moreover, a disturbing number of 4,456 individuals have been affected by multiple instances of strong winds, landslides, and flooding since early October, with Cibitoke bearing the brunt of the devastation.
Looking ahead, meteorological experts predict a peak in the severity of the weather conditions during the second half of November. The forecast indicates that the region will continue to experience exceptionally high rainfall until December 2023. With the OND rainy season in full swing, ICPAC and IGEBU warn of heavy to above-normal rainfall in the southern and central parts of the country. The Eastern, South-eastern, and Central regions are expected to face extreme rainfall, surpassing 200mm, with a probability exceeding 60%.
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The government and humanitarian organizations are coordinating efforts to provide relief and support to the affected communities. Immediate assistance, such as emergency shelter, clean water, and medical aid, is crucial for the well-being and recovery of those affected by this natural disaster. As Burundi braces itself for the challenging weeks ahead, the resilience and solidarity of its people will undoubtedly be tested, but together, they will strive to rebuild and overcome the aftermath of this devastating event..
