Senegal floods leave several dead
Heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding and damage to buildings across Senegal over the weekend, with the government confirming several deaths and warning residents to prepare for more rain in the coming days.
Flash floods affected the capital, Dakar, and several other parts of the country, disrupting transportation and putting pressure on infrastructure just weeks before Senegal is due to host the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics, scheduled to begin on October 31.
Local media reported that a mother and her child died after floodwaters entered their home in the Parcelles Assainies area of Dakar.
The Interior Ministry confirmed that deaths and injuries had been recorded in Dakar and the northeastern town of Matam. It also reported that a building had collapsed in Kaolack in southern Senegal.
Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo warned that there was a strong possibility of further rainfall on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
He also indicated that the reopening of schools for the new academic year could be delayed if floodwaters failed to recede.
Senegal’s meteorological agency, ANACIM, reported significant rainfall across several areas. Rufisque, located near Dakar, and Ranerou in the Matam region each recorded 142 millimetres of rain within 24 hours, while Dakar’s Yoff district recorded 138 millimetres.
Authorities have continued to monitor the situation as emergency teams respond to the flooding and assess the extent of the damage.
About The Author
