The Sahel and West Africa continue to experience torrential rains that have caused deadly floods in several countries, with rainfall levels reaching 120 to 600% above the 1991-2020 average.
The worst affected countries include Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad, where significant human and material losses have been recorded, according to the Special Note on Floods in the Sahel published on 5 September by the Integrated Regional Agricultural Information System of ECOWAS (AGRHYMET).
The report points out that “the amount of rainfall recorded in recent weeks was 120% to 600% higher than the reference average for 1991-2020”.
This excessive rainfall led to devastating flooding, particularly in the Niger basin in Niamey, where a red alert was maintained for four days. Flooding was also observed in the Senegal River basin, particularly in Bakel and Kidira.
The outlook is not encouraging. Climate models indicate that rainfall is likely to remain above average in the coming days. AGRHYMET points out that “the next ten days should be rainy, especially in the central and eastern Sahel”, which includes countries such as Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.
In addition, the report cites forecasts from the seasonal outlook report (PRESASS), published in April 2024, which already predicted an exceptionally wet rainy season with above-normal river flows. This observed pattern confirms the results of the PRESASS and points to a rainy season in the Sahel with above-average runoff,” the report confirms.
As the waters continue to rise, the already vulnerable local populations will face increasing challenges. The experts call for a rapid mobilisation of resources to mitigate the effects of this crisis and protect the most vulnerable communities.
AC/sf/lb/as/APA