A sad event happened: six people died because of a disaster, and 11 more were killed by lightning strikes. MINEMA (Ministry of Emergency Management) talked about it in an interview with the Rwanda Broadcast Agency (RBA).
Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, the Minister in charge of Emergency Management, shared how bad things have been because of heavy rain in Rwanda recently. He talked about the huge loss of lives and the damage to many things in Rwandan society.
The rain didn’t just hurt people; it also wrecked buildings, infrastructures, houses, and farms. MINEMA is basing on METEO Rwanda’s forecast so that it can rescue people as quickly as possible and learn from past mistakes.
Minister Murasira said they’re focusing on places where bad weather hits the hardest, like the north, west, and south. These areas are more likely to have landslides and lightning strikes because of their rough terrain.
He talked about trying to stop these disasters before they happen and how heartbreaking it is when people don’t listen to safety advice. He stressed the importance of following safety rules, especially moving away from dangerous areas when told to do so to avoid tragedies.
In a devastating turn of events of April 30,2024 three individuals from the Rutsiro district fell victim to last night’s calamity, triggered by heavy rains. The community mourns the loss of these cherished members, whose lives were cut short amidst the chaos.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, the local administration extends its heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. Assuring them of unwavering support, authorities pledge to stand alongside those affected during this trying time
The night of May 29-30 brought heavy rainfall to several areas across various districts of Nothern and Western Province, leading to various rain-related disasters.
In Burera, the latest report highlights two individuals injured due to calamities, with 30 homes demolished, 31 toilets ravaged, and 82.5 hectares of crops devastated. Moreover, the Ruhunde-Rushara water pipeline suffered damage, alongside the Kidaho-Nyagahinga and Kebanu-Kinigi roads
Meanwhile, in Nyabihu District, particularly in the Shyira Sector, specifically in ‘Vunga,’ an area prone to such disasters, the extent of damage is yet to be fully assessed. However, the perennial issue of flooding from the tributaries of Mukungwa River has resurfaced, worsening the situation.
According to Ignace Twizererugira, a resident of the affected area, several roads have become impassable due to flooding and mud.
In the Shyira sector, heavy rainfall wreaked havoc on the Vunga Coffee Factory. As reported by the RBA, the factory’s management disclosed that several of its buildings were either severely damaged or completely destroyed, leading to a staggering loss of Rwf 30 million.
Additionally, crucial infrastructures including roads, buildings, and residential homes suffered extensive damage
Although the severity of this recent disaster may not match that of previous incidents, many residents have been displaced since midnight, highlighting the disruptive impact of the rainfall.
The overflow of the Mpenge River in Musanze has also been reported, particularly affecting residents of the Muhoza sector, especially those commuting to Musanze city for work.
This recent bout of heavy rainfall comes after Rwanda Meteorology’s warning on the 20th, predicting increased rainfall over the following ten days. Consequently, relevant institutions have been urged to remain vigilant and proactive in disaster preparedness to safeguard lives and minimize damage.
The situation continues to develop, with authorities closely monitoring the aftermath of these calamities.
The latest announcement of Rwanda Meteorology says “During the first (1st) dekad of May 2024, wetter conditions are expected to continue. The amount of rainfall ranging between 40 and 200 mm is expected across the country.”
