At least four dead in Tunisia floods after heaviest rainfall in over 70 years
Recent flooding in Tunisia has resulted in the loss of four lives, as reported by authorities on Tue, as parts of the nation experienced unprecedented rainfall levels. This severe weather event prompted the closure of schools and businesses.
Recent flooding in Tunisia has resulted in the loss of four lives, as reported by authorities on Tue, as parts of the nation experienced unprecedented rainfall levels. This severe weather event prompted the closure of schools and businesses.
All fatalities were recorded in Moknine, Monastir governorate. According to civil defense spokesperson Khalil Mechri, two individuals were carried away by floodwaters, and another drowned at home. Abderazak Rahal from the National Institute of Meteorology (INM) indicated that some areas had not witnessed such rainfall since 1950.
The regions of Monastir, Nabeul, and greater Tunis were particularly affected, with January's rainfall volumes being described as exceptional by Rahal.
Neighboring Algeria also faced significant rainfall and flooding, with the Algerian civil defense recovering the body of a man in his sixties in Relizane province.
Recent flooding in Tunisia has resulted in the loss of four lives, as reported by authorities on Tue, as parts of the nation experienced unprecedented rainfall levels.
The flooding has led to substantial disruptions, including suspension of classes in both public and private educational institutions across 15 of Tunisia's 24 governorates. Transportation systems have also been affected.
The Tunisian army is actively engaged in rescue operations. The INM's Mahrez Ghannouchi characterized the situation as critical in certain areas. The tourist location of Sidi Bou Said has reported 206 millimeters of rainfall since Monday night, according to INM data.
Despite record-breaking rainfall, flooding in Tunisian streets is common, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure. The drainage and stormwater systems are often outdated and poorly maintained, with urban expansion compounding these issues by reducing natural water absorption.
These events coincide with Tunisia's struggle against a prolonged seven-year drought, exacerbated by climate change, which has severely depleted water reserves in dams and resulted in water stress affecting agriculture and drinking supplies. Water cuts have been implemented in several regions during the summer months.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
