Climate Change: Flooding, landslides warning for parts of NW, West regions

By Stephen Tadaha

The National Observatory on Climate Change has warned of potential landslides and flooding in parts of the NW and West Regions. The Observatory warned that the landslides will likely occur in the last ten days of September which will see as much as 100 millimeters of rain on any given day.
Areas at heightened risk of flooding include Bamenda, Kumbo, Fundong, and Mbengwi in the North West, as well as Mbouda, Bafoussam, Dschang, Banka, Bana, Santchou, and Bazou in the West. The forecast highlights vulnerable divisions: Bui, Mezam, Boyo, and Menchum in the North West, Bamboutos, Menoua, Mifi, and Upper Nkam in the West.

In response, West Regional Governor Awa Fonka Augustine has called on local authorities to enhance public awareness and implement preventive measures to mitigate the impacts of the heavy rains. He urged residents to remain alert and avoid settling in high-risk areas like swampy or hilly terrain.
The Governor also cautioned that the rainy season may bring an uptick in diseases like malaria, cholera, and respiratory infections, advising the public to eliminate stagnant water and ensure their homes are structurally sound against strong winds.

Additionally, road users, particularly drivers and motorcyclists, are urged to exercise caution, especially on hilly routes where fog may significantly reduce visibility. Farmers are also advised to adhere to the agricultural calendar that aligns with the prevailing meteorological conditions.

In October 2023, landslides elsewhere in Yaounde left as many as 30 people dead and hundreds of others were rendered homeless after heavy rains in Mbankolo, Yaounde.

Read More: Mbankolo landslide kills 30, survivors speak to CNA – Cameroon News Agency