Devastating Floods in Tanzania Claim at Least 155 Lives, Affect Over 200,000

Tanzania is struggling with the aftermath of severe flooding that has claimed at least 155 lives and affected more than 200,000 people, according to Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa. The floods, triggered by weeks of heavy rainfall linked to the El Niño climate pattern, have caused widespread devastation across the East African nation.

Drone footage has revealed the extent of the damage, with over 10,000 houses damaged and significant destruction to crops, property, and infrastructure such as roads, bridges, railways, and schools. The coastal regions, including Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Morogoro, Mtwara, and Lindi, have been particularly hard hit, with disruptions to economic activities like fishing and maritime transport. "The rains, accompanied by strong winds and landslides, have affected over 51,000 households and more than 200,000 individuals," stated Prime Minister Majaliwa.

The Tanzanian government has established eight camps to provide shelter for 1,529 flood survivors and has distributed 40,000 tons of food and medical supplies to those in need. Emergency services are working tirelessly to rescue individuals stranded by the floodwaters, while schools in inundated areas have been forced to close. Majaliwa has urged residents in low-lying regions to seek higher ground and has called upon district officials to ensure that aid reaches those whose homes have been washed away.

Why this matters: The devastating floods in Tanzania emphasize the far-reaching impacts of climate change and the El Niño phenomenon on vulnerable communities. As the East African region continues to face heavier-than-usual rainfall, it is essential for governments and international organizations to prioritize disaster preparedness, mitigation strategies, and support for affected populations.

Prime Minister Majaliwa attributed the disastrous effects of the floods primarily to environmental degradation, including deforestation, unsustainable farming practices, and unregulated livestock grazing. Similar heavy rains and flooding have also been reported in neighboring East African countries, such as Kenya, Burundi, and Uganda, resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of thousands. The United Nations has warned that the impact of El Niño will persist in the coming months, with above-normal temperatures predicted across most land areas.

Key Takeaways

• Severe floods in Tanzania have killed 155 and affected over 200,000 people.
• Coastal regions heavily impacted, with damage to homes, crops, infrastructure, and disruption to economic activities.
• Tanzanian government providing shelter, food, and medical aid to flood survivors.
• Floods linked to climate change and El Niño, highlighting need for disaster preparedness.
• Environmental degradation, including deforestation, cited as a contributing factor to the floods.