Tragedy Strikes as Heavy Rains Trigger Deadly Floods in Cameroon’s Capital
In a devastating turn of events, the bustling streets of Cameroon’s capital were transformed into scenes of despair as at least 27 lives were lost, and over 50 individuals left injured due to the relentless downpour. The flood’s aftermath, which occurred on a fateful Sunday, has left rescue teams tirelessly searching for those unaccounted for amid the deluge.
The torrential rains brought forth a deluge of floodwaters in Yaounde 2, one of the city’s districts, causing widespread destruction by sweeping away buildings and reducing them to rubble. The resilience of rescue workers shines through as they persistently navigate the challenging terrain, all in the hope of saving lives from the wreckage.
Paul Atanga Ngi, Cameroon’s Territorial Administration Minister, paid a visit to the disaster-stricken site, sadly revealing that the death toll had risen to 27. He also conveyed that all those injured would receive medical care free of charge, extending heartfelt condolences on behalf of Cameroon’s President, Paul Biya, to the grieving families.
Frequent incidents of flooding have plagued Cameroon in recent years, with climate change often held responsible. This dire situation is further exacerbated by substandard construction practices that routinely sidestep safety regulations.
Floods Trigger Building Collapse, Resulting in Over 30 Fatalities
The harrowing aftermath of floods in Cameroon’s capital continues as search and rescue operations persist in their pursuit of the missing. This devastating incident has left an indelible mark on the city, with the death toll now standing at 27, and the search for the missing ongoing.
The most recent flood calamity was exacerbated when a manmade lake’s dike failed, sending structures tumbling down the hillside, as confirmed by government sources.
In the Mbankolo neighborhood of the city, at least 30 houses were swept away, with several collapsing on residents who were trapped inside, leading to further casualties. Tragically, some were also swept away by the relentless floodwaters.
Ernest Zebaze, a 24-year-old university student, recounted the heart-wrenching experience of identifying the lifeless bodies of his mother and two siblings. He continues to search for his father, who was in their home during the downpour.
The victims’ bodies have been respectfully laid to rest at a local morgue, while the injured have been promptly transported to hospitals for medical care. Among the wounded is a 7-year-old girl, who is now under medical supervision at the Yaounde General Hospital.
In light of these recurrent calamities, local authorities have been taking measures to demolish structures in high-risk areas vulnerable to floods and landslides. Regrettably, many of the buildings that succumbed to the floods on that tragic Sunday had been previously marked for demolition.