By: Methuselah Gaye, Correspondent
River Cess County, Liberia – The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) have deployed teams to assist communities devastated by severe flooding last week in River Cess County. The response effort began on Saturday evening, with teams currently assessing the damage in the ITI and Glanyan communities.
Superintendent Byron Zahnwhea of River Cess County reported on Sunday, October 6, that the county is working closely with national partners to address the urgent needs of affected residents. He expressed gratitude to the government for its prompt intervention in response to the catastrophic flooding, which has left thousands of properties damaged and hundreds of residents displaced.
“The situation is dire,” Superintendent Zahnwhea stated. “Many families are in urgent need of food and clothing.”
Local resident Mohammed Keita shared his plight, revealing that the flood destroyed property valued at over $2,000. He and many others have sought refuge in neighboring areas as their homes remain uninhabitable.
The Glanyan community, a mining camp, has been particularly hard-hit, with reports indicating that at least 24 homes have been swept away by rising waters. Witnesses noted that many structures have collapsed, leaving the area engulfed in water.
This flooding incident marks the first significant crisis of its kind for River Cess, attributed to relentless rainfall that has caused the Cestos River to overflow. Women and children have been disproportionately affected by the disaster.
As rescue operations continue in the affected communities, authorities have reported no fatalities. However, the need for urgent assistance remains critical as the situation unfolds.
