The devastating impact of torrential rains in Niger continues to unfold, with the latest figures revealing a grim reality. As of September 23, the floods have claimed the lives of 339 people and displaced over 1.1 million, according to Niger’s state news agency ANP. This marks a significant increase from the previous toll reported last month.
The floods have wreaked havoc across the country, including the capital Niamey, where nine people lost their lives. The damage extends far beyond human casualties, impacting infrastructure, livestock, and food supplies. A historic mosque in Zinder, Niger’s second city, dating back to the mid-19th century, has been destroyed.
The sheer volume of rainfall has been unprecedented, with some areas experiencing up to 200 percent more rain than in previous years, according to the national meteorological agency. This has forced the government to postpone the start of the school year to the end of October due to the damage to schools and the large number of displaced families.
Niger’s rainy season typically lasts from June to September, and while it often brings challenges, the toll this year has been particularly severe. In 2022, 195 people lost their lives due to floods. Scientists have warned that climate change, fueled by fossil fuel emissions, is intensifying extreme weather events like floods, making them more frequent, intense, and prolonged. The devastating consequences in Niger serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities.
