Flash Floods in Kinshasa, Congo Claim 30 Lives, Authorities Fear Higher Death Toll

Kinshasa: Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kinshasa, have claimed the lives of at least 30 people, with authorities warning that the death toll may rise further.

According to a report by international news agency Reuters, Provincial Health Minister Petreson Gongo Abakazi stated that the current death toll is provisional, as several areas of the capital have been severely affected by the flooding, with homes and roads destroyed.

The minister confirmed that 30 deaths have been reported so far, but stressed that the number could increase as more information comes in. The rising water levels in the Ndjili River have exacerbated the situation, affecting an area home to over 17 million people. Additionally, national highways have been blocked, and drivers have been stranded for more than a day.

Local resident Patricia Mekonga shared her experience, saying that she was forced to spend the night in her car after she was unable to find a safe parking spot while returning from the airport.

The flooding has caused widespread power outages across several districts of Kinshasa. Another resident pointed out that the most pressing issue in the area is the lack of water supply, as many pipelines have been damaged.

Kinshasa’s Governor, Daniel Bemba Loubaki, revealed that water lines have been disrupted but are expected to be restored within two to three days. He also blamed illegal construction in the city for many of the fatalities, stating that several deaths occurred in areas where unregulated buildings contributed to the flooding.

The governor has warned that residents living in illegally constructed homes and buildings will be relocated to safer areas.