Post by : Shakul

Severe flooding in the city of Benguela in Angola has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, while 11 others remain missing, according to initial reports released by local authorities on April 15, 2026.

The disaster was triggered after the water level of the Cavaco River rose significantly following intense rainfall. The situation worsened when a protective barrier on the river’s left bank collapsed last Sunday, leading to sudden and widespread flooding across several neighborhoods.

The unprecedented floods submerged residential areas, causing massive destruction and panic among residents. Authorities confirmed that at least 451 homes were destroyed, leaving thousands without shelter and basic necessities.

As a result of the disaster, nearly 20,000 people have been displaced and are currently in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, including food, clean water, and medical support.

President Joao Lourenco visited the affected region to inspect emergency response operations related to the Cavaco River dam. During his visit, he also chaired a meeting of the National Civil Protection Committee in Benguela to assess the situation and coordinate relief measures for the victims.

Historical data indicates that the Cavaco River has a record of frequent flooding, particularly in the years 1979, 1983, 2002, and 2015, each time causing significant damage to homes, farmland, and human life.

The broader Southern African region has been experiencing unusually heavy rainfall during recent seasons. Countries like Namibia and Zambia have also faced deadly floods in recent years, highlighting a growing climate-related risk in the region.

In 2023, Angola witnessed major floods that claimed 30 lives and affected over 116,000 people across 15 of its 18 provinces, underscoring the recurring nature of such disasters in the country.

#Asia News #Environment #Water Resistance #Disasters #Floods