Benguela: Authorities in the Benguela province have initiated rescue efforts following the overflow of the Cavaco River, which resulted from the collapse of a protective dike in the Bimbas area. The provincial governor, Manuel Nunes Jºnior, emphasized the urgent need to save lives in the affected regions, highlighting the immediate response to the flooding crisis.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Governor Manuel Nunes Jºnior addressed the press regarding the dire circumstances in Benguela, noting that the Cavaco River's level has surged significantly due to heavy rains in the province's interior. The governor described the situation as challenging, with the riverbed rising dramatically, leading to the flooding.
Governor Nunes Jºnior outlined two primary challenges: social and technical. The social challenge involves providing immediate support to residents whose homes have been flooded and destroyed. The governor mentioned that efforts, including collaboration with the Navy and Firefighters, are underway to rescue those affected, and fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.
In response to the crisis, authorities are also working on relocating displaced families and conducting preliminary repairs on the dike in Bimbas to manage the water flow. The collapse of the dike has led to widespread flooding in multiple neighborhoods across Benguela, displacing hundreds of residents.
The intense rains and subsequent strong water currents were identified as the causes of the dike's failure, particularly impacting areas such as Calomanga, Massangarala, Quioche, Cotel, and Santa Teresa. Both peripheral and urban areas of Benguela have experienced unprecedented flooding.
Further complications include submerged agricultural lands and farms near the river, as well as disruptions to road traffic between Benguela and Lobito. The Benguela Railway line has also been affected, adding to the region's logistical challenges.
Residents recounted moments of panic, with many experiencing material losses. While some sought refuge in elevated areas, others awaited assistance from the rooftops of their inundated homes.
