Continuous heavy rains have hit Mayo Danay in the Far North region of Cameroon, and the city of Yagoua has suffered the most from the unprecedented downpour.
The impact is severe, with reports indicating a minimum of ten deaths, with entire neighbourhoods underwater, 185 primary schools and 13 high schools flooded, and the loss of over 1,100 livestock.
Residents are facing hardship in the midst of the disaster, with many struggling to access basic necessities like food and shelter.
The humanitarian impact is significant. More than 200,000 people have been affected, and 8,000 homes have been destroyed. Those displaced by the disaster have been moved to temporary camps outside the city. However, the affected individuals are urgently requesting additional assistance as they have lost everything.
The rainfall has also destroyed a crucial bridge connecting Maga to Yagoua, further isolating specific neighbourhoods. In response, Cameroonian Minister of Urban Development Célestine Ketcha Courtes went to the site to evaluate the damage and outline immediate measures.
The government has declared 350 million CFA francs in aid for the victims, although many locals believe this amount is inadequate considering the extent of the crisis.
Currently, canoes remain the only practical mode of transportation, and there are concerns that the region could become entirely cut off if prompt actions are not taken.