Recent floods in West and Central Africa, intensified by climate change, have killed over a thousand people and displaced many more. A study by World Weather Attribution (WWA) shows that climate change worsened extreme weather events in Sudan, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, contributing to a faster-spreading cholera outbreak.
These frequent storms put immense pressure on affected communities, making recovery more difficult. Experts, like Joyce Kimutai from Imperial College London, stress that repeated disasters reduce people’s capacity to cope and respond effectively.
Cholera cases have surged due to flooding, especially in Nigeria and Sudan, where poor sanitation and displacement fuel the spread of the disease. In Nigeria, over 350 deaths have occurred, with Sudan reporting 15,000 cases and 400 deaths.
The WWA study finds that extreme rainfall in Sudan is now expected every three years, with increased intensity due to climate change. Similar heavy rainfall events in the region are becoming more frequent, further affecting local populations.
As climate disasters increase, recovery becomes harder, especially with limited resources for rebuilding. Experts suggest micro-insurance and better planning for vulnerable communities to help mitigate the impact of future floods and storms.