Climate change observatory warns of floods, landslides in several regions.

It was issued recently by NOCC. The bulletin cautions residents, especially in the Centre, Far North, Littoral and North West Regions, among others, to be on alert.

As explained by NOCC experts, up until October 30, the country will be in the middle of the main rainy season, with the possibility of severe rainfall, sometimes accompanied by violent winds.

According to the forecast bulletin, the rains will not cause any major damage in some localities. It however warned that people could become homeless if steps are not taken, and urgently too, in some localities. 

The institution also warned of the risk of flooding in the Centre Region, particularly in Yaounde, in the neighbourhoods of Nkolbisson, Nkolmesseng, Elig-Edzoa and Etoa-Meki. Other neighbourhoods have also been urged to remain vigilant.

Flooding is still feared in the Far North Region; in Kousséri, Maroua, Goulfey, Gana, Kalfou, Yagoua, Logone Birni, as well as Garoua in the North and Belabo in the East Region. 

In the Littoral Region, the bulletin cites the Douala I, II, III, IV and V Subdivisions, Edea and Nkongsamba, including Kribi and Ambam in the South Region. 

In the North West Region, the populations of Ajung and Bamenda, are called upon to remain cautious, while in the South West Region, the same warning is issued to the towns of Limbe, Tiko and Buea.

The forecast bulletin adds that landslides could also occur in certain towns in the West Region, notably Fokoue, Foreke, Foto, Fongo-Tongo in the Menoua Division, as well as the towns of Bangang, and Kombou in Bamboutos Division, and Kekem, Bafang, Bana in Haut-Nkam and Bazou in Nde Division.

In the North West Region, landslides, following heavy rains and waterlogging, are feared in Menchum, Bui, Boyo and Momo Divisions. This is the same with Lebialem Division in the South West Region. The forecast also includes lightning and thunderstorms in Adamawa, Far North, North, Littoral and South West Regions.

NOCC, in the bulletin, recommends the cleaning of drains and gutters to facilitate rainwater runoff. The climate change observatory has also cautioned the public to avoid crossing flooded areas and bridges during heavy rains. It has called on those living in areas at high risk of flooding to be on alert. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post issue No:3275 of Wednesday October 30, 2024