Photos reveal devastation from deadly mudslides and floods in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The rainfall caused two rivers to break their banks, leading to flash flooding and landslides that wiped out a number of homes.
Watch: Helicopter rescue of trucker trapped by floodwater in Kenya
The driver was stuck for six hours, according to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the team that spearheaded the rescue. (Courtesy: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust via Storyful)
KALEHE, Congo – More than 400 people have died after torrential rains struck parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo in central Africa on Thursday.
According to the Associated Press, the rainfall caused two rivers to break their banks, leading to flash flooding and landslides that wiped out a number of homes.
Map of the Democratic Republic of Congo, noting the location of Kalehe province.
(FOX Weather / FOX Weather)
The AP noted that the worst-affected area was the Kalehe territory of South Kivu province in the eastern Congo. Two villages in particular, Bushushu and Nyamukubi, had most of their buildings swept away by the floods.
This aerial photograph taken on May 8, 2023 shows a landslide that engulfed Nyamukubi village, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. May 7, 2023.
(GUERCHOM NDEBO / AFP / Getty Images)
Many families are left to sort through the wreckage to rebuild their homes and find their loved ones.
Family members and residents of the two villages affected by the floods look up at the damage caused by the disaster in Nyamukubi, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, May 8, 2023.
(Guerchom Ndebo / AFP / Getty Images)
Emergency access to affected areas has been a challenge, as the floods have also made two main roads impassable, the AP said.
A view of damage after floods and landslides in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on May 08, 2023.
(Augustin Wamenya / Anadolu Agency / Getty Images)
On Tuesday, the U.S. Embassy in Congo said in a press release that they are currently assessing the most pressing needs of the affected communities.
Embassy added that officials are also coordinating closely with the Government of the DRC and other humanitarian partners to guarantee the efficient and effective delivery of assistance.
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Recent torrential rains in nearby countries, such as Rwanda and Kenya, have also caused flooding.