In brief
In a devastating turn of events, Cape Verde has declared a state of emergency following flash floods that resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals and displaced over 1,500 residents from their homes. The floods, instigated by Tropical Storm Erin, unleashed an astounding 193mm (7.6in) of rain in a mere five hours, significantly surpassing the annual rainfall average for São Vicente. Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia described the flooding as "catastrophic," prompting urgent action for crisis funds and infrastructure repairs.
Rescue operations are currently underway to locate missing persons amid extensive damage to roads, homes, and vehicles. Ester Brito from the meteorology institute labeled the weather circumstances "uncommon," noting that the rainfall levels exceeded the historical averages recorded over the past 30 years. Interior Minister Paulo Rocha recounted a night filled with "panic and despair" as the floods took hold. Community organiser Alveno Yali characterized the scene as "an incredible moment of heavy rains, strong winds, and flash floods, resulting in significant material losses."In response to the disaster, the Cape Verdean diaspora in countries like France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the United States has launched urgent fundraising campaigns, successfully raising tens of thousands of euros to provide essential supplies, including food, water, and hygiene products. Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, confirmed that the diaspora is mobilized to deliver aid directly to those in need. As recovery efforts continue, the nation grapples with the devastating aftermath of these unprecedented weather events.
