The devastating floods in Cape Verde resulted in at least nine fatalities and displaced over 1,500 residents from their homes. The government’s declaration of a state of emergency allows for immediate access to crisis funds and facilitates urgent repairs for the beleaguered infrastructure on the islands.
The flooding, which occurred on Monday, was ignited by Tropical Storm Erin, resulting in an extraordinary 193mm (7.6 inches) of rainfall within just five hours—far surpassing São Vicente's annual precipitation average. Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia called the floods "catastrophic," highlighting the dire situation facing the islands.
Rescue operations are currently underway as teams search for missing individuals amid widespread destruction of roads, homes, and vehicles. Ester Brito, a meteorologist from the national institute, noted that the rainfall was unprecedented, describing it as a rare occurrence surpassing the 30-year climatological average.
Interior Minister Paulo Rocha recounted a harrowing night characterized by "panic and despair," as severe weather conditions wreaked havoc on communities. Local resident Alveno Yali shared similar sentiments, noting the chaos caused by the sudden downpour and gusty winds leading to significant material damages.
The Cape Verdean diaspora, particularly in countries like France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the United States, have rallied together to support those in need. They have initiated urgent crowdfunding campaigns, successfully raising tens of thousands of euros to secure food, water, hygiene products, and other essential supplies.
Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, emphasized that their entire community is mobilized in support efforts aimed at delivering aid directly to those affected. As the situation evolves, the need for assistance remains critical in the face of this natural disaster.
For more updates, follow our coverage on the humanitarian crisis in Cape Verde through local news channels and global reports.
The flooding, which occurred on Monday, was ignited by Tropical Storm Erin, resulting in an extraordinary 193mm (7.6 inches) of rainfall within just five hours—far surpassing São Vicente's annual precipitation average. Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia called the floods "catastrophic," highlighting the dire situation facing the islands.
Rescue operations are currently underway as teams search for missing individuals amid widespread destruction of roads, homes, and vehicles. Ester Brito, a meteorologist from the national institute, noted that the rainfall was unprecedented, describing it as a rare occurrence surpassing the 30-year climatological average.
Interior Minister Paulo Rocha recounted a harrowing night characterized by "panic and despair," as severe weather conditions wreaked havoc on communities. Local resident Alveno Yali shared similar sentiments, noting the chaos caused by the sudden downpour and gusty winds leading to significant material damages.
The Cape Verdean diaspora, particularly in countries like France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the United States, have rallied together to support those in need. They have initiated urgent crowdfunding campaigns, successfully raising tens of thousands of euros to secure food, water, hygiene products, and other essential supplies.
Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, emphasized that their entire community is mobilized in support efforts aimed at delivering aid directly to those affected. As the situation evolves, the need for assistance remains critical in the face of this natural disaster.
For more updates, follow our coverage on the humanitarian crisis in Cape Verde through local news channels and global reports.
