Flood Sweeps Through Cameroon’s Economic Capital City
Tragic flooding has swept through communities in Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital. On Monday, May 18, the disastrous incident caused a five-year-old child to drown as heavy torrential rains led to severe flooding in the country’s economic hub.
The child was swept away in the Banya-Sable area, located in Douala’s 5th district.
“Trapped by the rapidly rising waters, the child was carried off by a strong current. The body was recovered a short time later and taken by the parents to the Ad Lucem hospital, where the death was confirmed,” said Nana Paul Sabin, an eyewitness.
The flooding affected the 5th, 4th, 3rd, and 2nd administrative districts, as well as residential and administrative areas such as Bonapriso and Bonanjo in Douala’s 1st district.
“The floods caused significant disruptions and blockages in traffic, and in certain locations, the water levels rose alarmingly due to drainage issues,” a resident from Douala’s 3rd district stated.
In response, the Douala Urban Council issued a statement urging residents to exercise caution in their daily activities. The council advised individuals in high-risk areas to limit non-essential travel, avoid flood currents, stay clear of unstable structures, and be especially vigilant with children.
“The Douala Urban Council also emphasises the importance of keeping drainage pathways clear and encourages civic responsibility to help preserve lives,” the communiqué read.
It also noted that technical teams have been deployed to address the aftermath of the heavy rainfall.
“Let us stay alert, united, and responsible,” the statement concluded.
Severe flooding in Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital, resulted in the tragic drowning of a five-year-old. Heavy torrential rains led to significant inundation across multiple districts, causing traffic disruptions and raising concerns over drainage systems.
The Douala Urban Council has advised caution, urging residents to avoid floodwaters and unstable structures, particularly in high-risk areas. Efforts are underway with technical teams addressing the flooding aftermath while emphasizing civic responsibility to maintain drainage paths and enhance safety.