At least 177 people killed in floods in Mali since the start of the rainy season

BAMAKO, Oct. 11 (Xinhua) — Floods since the start of the rainy season in Mali have killed at least 177 people, according to an official report.

The report, published Friday by Mali’s Interministerial Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management, also noted 656 floods recorded, resulting in 148 injuries and the collapse of 37,999 houses, affecting 264,646 people in 47,955 households.

In addition to the extensive damage, the Malian Ministry of Education reported that 128 public schools are currently occupied by flood victims, 167 remain submerged and 256 have collapsed.

Heavy rains continue across the country, causing rivers and their tributaries to overflow.

In response to the crisis, Malian authorities have repeatedly urged residents to evacuate flood-prone areas, clear blocked waterways and avoid venturing onto flooded roads, whether on foot, by motorbike or car. Citizens have been advised to stay away from swollen rivers and seek shelter indoors during heavy rains.

On August 23, the Malian government declared a “state of national disaster”, delaying the start of the school year from October 1 to November 4.