HUNDREDS DEAD AS CONGO RIVER BASIN RISES TO HIGHEST LEVEL IN 60 YEARS

The mighty Congo River is raging. At its highest level in over 60 years, its swollen waters have wreaked havoc across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), claiming over 300 lives and displacing countless others. The tragedy exposes not only the destructive power of nature but also the vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change and inadequate infrastructure.

Experts warn that intense rainfall, now more frequent due to a warming planet, has compounded the impact of the overflowing river. Ferry Mowa, a hydrology specialist at the DRC riverways authority, sounded the alarm even before the disaster unfolded. He highlighted the alarming rise in water levels and predicted the potential submergence of Kinshasa’s flood plain, where millions reside.

This stark warning underscores the crucial role of preparedness and proactive measures in mitigating the impact of such natural disasters. The DRC’s experience reveals the urgent need for African countries to address vulnerabilities caused by poorly planned urban development and fragile infrastructure. Investing in robust flood defenses, early warning systems, and climate-resilient development strategies are crucial steps to safeguard lives and livelihoods in the face of an increasingly unpredictable environment.

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SOURCE: Jordan105.5 News Bulletin