Monsoon havoc reveals rising flood risks in West and Central Africa

Over the last several months, severe monsoon rains caused devastating floods across West and Central Africa, affecting over 8.5 million people and killing more than 1,460 people, Reuters reports citing data from the UN aid agency OCHA. Heavy rains flooded Chad’s 23 provinces, broke a dam in northern Nigeria, and damaged ancient buildings in Niger. Areas that typically receive little rainfall, like northern Chad, also experienced unprecedented flooding, exposing weaknesses in infrastructure and preparedness.

Experts attribute the worsening floods to climate change, poor urban planning, and natural cycles of heavier monsoons. Economic losses from flooding in Africa have more than doubled, reaching $12.5 billion in 2010-2019. Despite warnings, vulnerable communities remain ill-equipped to respond due to poverty and lack of resources. Climate experts urge better early warning systems and proactive planning to mitigate future disasters. The flooding underscores the urgent need for more robust infrastructure and disaster management in the region.