Heavy Rains: Parts of Douala Under Water

Heavy rains over the weekend left several parts of Douala submerged, disrupting move­ ment and forcing some residents to remain indoors as roads, bridges and markets were inundated by rising water. The downpour, on Friday Saturday and Sunday which persisted for several hours, once again exposed the vulnerability of Douala to flooding during the rainy season. Several streets became difficult or impossible to cross, while water accumulated in residential areas and commercial centres. At Makepe-Missoke, the overflowing bridge became a major obstacle for residents. The bridge over the Banya River was also overw­ helmed by rising water, making movement particularly difficult for people living on either side. Some residents who had planned to go about their daily activities were forced to stay home or wait for the water level to drop. The situation was equally challenging at Marché Ndogpassi III, where flood­ water spread across parts of the market, disrupting trading activities. Traders and customers had to navi­ gate through water areas, while some vendors were compelled to protect or move their goods to pre­ vent them from being damaged. For residents of flood prone neigh­ bourhoods like Mambanda, Bepanda Akwa, Makepe, such scenes have become a recurring feature of the rainy season. Some families have adopted a seasonal survival strategy, temporarily moving to safer areas when the rains become intense and returning home once the season is over. Among them are Madam Magdalene Njuemo who have experienced th...