Cape Verde has been struck by catastrophic flooding that has led to a declared state of emergency on the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão. The flooding, spurred by Tropical Storm Erin, has resulted in at least nine deaths and forced approximately 1,500 residents to flee their homes.
Cape Verde in Crisis: Emergency Declared Following Deadly Floods
Cape Verde in Crisis: Emergency Declared Following Deadly Floods
Cape Verde's state of emergency aims to address the aftermath of devastating floods that have claimed lives and displaced thousands.
The torrential rains, amounting to 193mm (7.6in) over just five hours, have caused significant damage to infrastructure and property. Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia described the situation as "catastrophic," underscoring the urgency of the crisis response which includes activating emergency funds for infrastructure repairs.
Reports from the country's meteorology service indicated that the volume of rainfall was unprecedented, far exceeding the average levels recorded over the last three decades. "It is a rare situation because what was recorded is above our climatologist average," remarked meteorologist Ester Brito. She pointed out that the lack of adequate radar equipment hindered their capacity to predict such severe weather events.
The night of the floods has been portrayed by Interior Minister Paulo Rocha as one filled with "panic and despair." In São Vicente, described as the hardest-hit island, community organizer Alveno Yali recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing heavy rains and destructive winds leading to severe material losses.
In response to this disaster, the overseas Cape Verdean community, particularly those in France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the US, has organized crowdfunding initiatives to provide essential supplies like food, water, and hygiene products. Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, confirmed that the diaspora is mobilizing swiftly to distribute aid directly to those affected.
Reports from the country's meteorology service indicated that the volume of rainfall was unprecedented, far exceeding the average levels recorded over the last three decades. "It is a rare situation because what was recorded is above our climatologist average," remarked meteorologist Ester Brito. She pointed out that the lack of adequate radar equipment hindered their capacity to predict such severe weather events.
The night of the floods has been portrayed by Interior Minister Paulo Rocha as one filled with "panic and despair." In São Vicente, described as the hardest-hit island, community organizer Alveno Yali recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing heavy rains and destructive winds leading to severe material losses.
In response to this disaster, the overseas Cape Verdean community, particularly those in France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the US, has organized crowdfunding initiatives to provide essential supplies like food, water, and hygiene products. Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, confirmed that the diaspora is mobilizing swiftly to distribute aid directly to those affected.
