N’Djamena—The Logone River in Chad’s capital has risen to levels unseen in decades, authorities reported on Wednesday. Surging to its highest point in 30 to 40 years, the river threatens to bring further turmoil to a nation already battling devastating floods.
Communities along the riverbanks watch anxiously as the waters inch higher. Fatima, a mother of three, stood outside her home, the water lapping at her doorstep. “We have nowhere else to go,” she said. “The river keeps rising, and we’re scared of what might happen next.”
Weeks of heavy rainfall have saturated the ground, leaving little room for absorption. The floods have affected vast regions of Chad, displacing thousands and destroying crops just before harvest season. The rising Logone River now poses an additional threat to the capital’s infrastructure and its residents.
Government officials have declared a state of emergency, mobilizing relief efforts and setting up temporary shelters. “Our immediate focus is on safeguarding lives and providing necessary aid,” said Minister of Interior Mahamat Abba Ali. “We urge everyone in high-risk areas to evacuate promptly.”
Humanitarian organizations expressed concern over the escalating crisis. Access to clean water, food, and medical care has become increasingly challenging in flood-affected areas. The risk of waterborne diseases looms large, especially among children and the elderly.
Climate experts suggest that changing weather patterns have contributed to the severity of the floods. “Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense,” noted Dr. Issa Oumar, a climatologist at the University of N’Djamena. “We must invest in sustainable infrastructure and disaster preparedness to protect our communities.”
The spirit of the Chadian people shines through the adversity. Volunteers are assisting in sandbagging efforts, while local businesses donate supplies to those in need. International partners have begun coordinating aid shipments to support the relief operations.
As the nation faces this monumental challenge, resilience and unity become paramount. The full impact of the Logone River’s rise remains uncertain, but with collective effort, Chad hopes to navigate through these turbulent waters.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
