Yaounde, Cameroon, October 09, 2023, Tragedy struck in Cameroon's capital as heavy rainfall led to devastating floods, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and over 50 injuries. The downpour triggered a deluge in Yaounde 2 district on Sunday, causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of numerous buildings. These recurring floods in Cameroon, often attributed to climate change, have been exacerbated by substandard construction practices that frequently bypass regulations.
In the aftermath of the disaster, search and rescue efforts were underway to locate missing individuals. The victims' remains were respectfully placed in a morgue, while the injured received immediate medical attention, with 12 of them, including a 7-year-old girl, being admitted to Yaounde General Hospital.
In response to the ongoing threat, Cameroonian authorities have initiated a campaign to demolish structures located in high-risk areas vulnerable to floods and landslides. Tragically, some of the buildings that succumbed to the floods on Sunday had already been earmarked for demolition, underscoring the urgent need for improved urban planning and disaster preparedness in the face of climate-related challenges.
