As rainy season intensifies: Climate Observatory sounds alarm over flood, landslide threats.

The bulletin, published on September 9, warns that heavy rains combined with saturated soils, will likely trigger natural disasters across multiple regions, threatening infrastructure and livelihoods.

The three-month outlook points to an intensification of rainfall during September and October, particularly in the northern, western and coastal zones. While precipitation amounts will in many cases remain close to long-term averages, their concentration within short periods raises the likelihood of extreme events.

North, central and southern zones face flood threats 

In the Sudano-Sahelian zone, floods remain a primary concern. NOCC notes that floodplains in Makari, Kousseri, Mora, Maga, Maroua, Yagoua and Kaele are at significant risk of inundation, particularly in September. In the North Region, Garoua, Lagdo, Pitoa and Guider are among the localities flagged for high flood risk. 

The bimodal rainforest zone, covering the Centre, East and South regions, will continue in its long rainy season. This is expected to bring abundant rainfall, raising flood risks in low-lying and marshy areas.

In the Centre Region, Monatele, Yaounde, Obala, Ngambe Tikar, Ngoro, Makenene and Nanga Eboko have been identified as vulnerable zones. In the South, Nyabizan, Ambam and Ebolowa are forecasted to experience above-average rainfall, while Kribi is at particular risk of flooding, given its coastal location and exposure to heavy rains.

The monomodal rainforest zone, including the Littoral and South West, will remain under persistent rainfall through November. Douala, Edéa, Nkongsamba, Loum, Manjo and Mbanga in the Littoral are listed among the flood-prone areas.

Landslides loom in highlands

The Western Highlands are forecasted to remain firmly in the rainy season, with rainfall above historical averages. This, according to the seasonal bulletin, raises the threat of landslides and mudflows in the North West and West regions.

Localities at risk in the North West include Furuwa, Benakuma, Munkep, Ndop and Batibo, while in the West, danger zones extend to Tonga, Foumban, Dschang, Bafoussam, Mbouda, Foumbot, Bafang, Bangangté and Bazou. NOCC warns that September and October will be the most critical months for landslide incidents in these areas.

In the South West, where mountainous landscapes meet intense rainfall, both floods and landslides are expected. Limbe, Buea, Tiko, Kumba, Muyuka, Mamfe, Nguti and Mundemba have been flagged as localities of concern. 

Ripple effects across sectors

The NOCC bulletin highlighted likely disruptions across several sectors if forecasted hazards materialise. Agriculture could see crop losses from waterlogged fields, soil degradation and post-harvest rot. Livestock production faces threats from animals drowning and increased disease outbreaks in damp conditions.

Health services were warned to prepare for surges in waterborne illnesses such as cholera and diarrhoea, alongside heightened malaria transmission from stagnant water. Infrastructure remains vulnerable to washed-out roads, eroded bridges and damaged culverts, while the tourism and biodiversity sectors could see restricted access to protected areas and increased risks of wildlife displacement.

Proposed solutions

To counter these threats, the observatory encouraged farmers are to follow adjusted agricultural calendars, adopt integrated pest management techniques and install drainage systems to protect crops. Livestock owners are advised to adopt semi-intensive rearing practices, vaccinate against major diseases and avoid flood-prone areas.

In health, NOCC recommended intensified awareness campaigns on water purification, malaria prevention and sanitation, alongside stockpiling essential medicines in high-risk areas. For infrastructure, the observatory called for regular reservoir monitoring, the cleaning of drainage networks and reinforcement of bridges and roads. It also advised contingency planning in protected areas, the deployment of eco-guards and community awareness campaigns to safeguard biodiversity and tourism.

NOCC emphasised that vigilance is essential in the coming weeks, with September and October identified as peak months for destructive floods and landslides. Local authorities and communities in high-risk zones were urged to remain alert to evolving weather patterns as the season unfolds.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3562 of Friday September 12, 2025