Extreme Flooding in Cape Verde Causes Devastation and Loss of Life
Extreme rainfall on August 11 has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people, including four children, due to severe flash floods on São Vicente Island. In response, the government of Cape Verde has declared a state of disaster for both São Vicente and the neighboring Santo Antão, reports 24brussels.
The National Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics (INMG) recorded an alarming 192.3 mm (7.57 inches) of rain within just five hours, starting from midnight until 05:00 local time. This deluge, driven by outer rainbands from Tropical Storm Erin, vastly exceeded the island’s average annual rainfall, incapacitating drainage systems and emergency services.
The flash floods have inundated residential areas, caused significant damage to commercial properties, and obstructed crucial roads with debris and fallen trees. Widespread power outages have impacted large segments of the island, with the main route to Cesária Évora International Airport temporarily blocked, although the airport has remained operational. Reports indicate that approximately 1,500 individuals have been displaced and over 3,000 people affected by the crisis.
As the flooding unfolded, Tropical Storm Erin, previously identified as Invest 97L, was gaining strength to the west of the archipelago. Officially forming at 15:00 UTC on August 11, the storm was situated about 450 km (280 miles) west-northwest of Cape Verde, with winds reaching 75 km/h (45 mph). By 09:00 UTC on August 12, Erin was reported to be located 1,105 km west of Cape Verde and moving west at a speed of 35 km/h, with a central pressure of 1,004 hPa.
Cape Verde’s meteorological service issued warnings regarding possible additional showers and thunderstorms, raising concerns about further localized flooding in areas already saturated. Emergency teams, including the Municipal Fire Department, Civil Defense, and National Police, are actively engaged in rescue and cleanup operations to mitigate the aftermath.
Interior Minister Paulo Rocha characterized the chaotic night as one marked by “panic and despair,” stating that the government is taking steps to mobilize resources for affected citizens and restore normalcy. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has deployed teams to support ongoing relief efforts.
Meteorologists anticipate that Erin may gradually strengthen, with potential to reach hurricane status as it progresses westward across the Atlantic Ocean.
