Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding in Buea, Cameroon, with several areas of the municipality affected. According to George Mafany Teke, Ph.D., Geologist and South West Regional Delegate of Scientific Research and Innovation, no human casualties have been reported, but some people have lost their property. The areas most affected include the Regional Hospital Annex Junction, the road from Nakuve Junction to the Parliamentarian Flats Hotel, and the ravine flowing along the length of the road from the Divisional Officer’s road Junction to the Buea Council.
The flooding is attributed to the heavy rainfall that fell on the mountain, which caused the ravines to overflow. The rain that fell in Buea City itself was not severe enough to cause flooding, but the intense rainfall on the mountain had a significant impact on the municipality. The overflowing ravines and waterways caused flooding in several areas, including the lower reaches of the municipality around Bunduma and in front of the Second District Police Station Molyko.
Dr. Teke emphasized that the flooding is a normal phenomenon, but it is exacerbated by the behavior of the people living in the city. He noted that dumping refuse in waterways and ravines can cause blockages, leading to flooding. When water comes, it will always find its way, and the debris and refuse in the waterways can cause it to leave its channel and flow into undesirable areas.
The flooding in Buea is not a new occurrence. Similar incidents have happened in recent times, including in 2005 and 2011. However, the impact of the flooding on the municipality is often conditioned by human behavior, such as encroachment on waterways and building houses along them. These actions reduce the channels of water and contribute to the severity of the flooding.
Dr. Teke also addressed speculation about a possible seismic cause linked to the severe rains and floods. He did not provide further information on this topic, but emphasized that the flooding was caused by the heavy rainfall and the behavior of the people living in the city.
The flooding has highlighted the need for responsible environmental practices in Buea. Dr. Teke emphasized that people must be responsible in how they use their environment, including keeping waterways and ravines clear of debris and refuse. This can help mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and prevent flooding.
The authorities are likely to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This may include clearing waterways and ravines, as well as educating the public on the importance of responsible environmental practices. The flooding in Buea serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of the environment and being prepared for natural disasters.
Key points
- The flooding in Buea was caused by heavy rainfall on the mountain, which caused ravines to overflow and affect several areas of the municipality.
- Human behavior, such as dumping refuse in waterways and encroaching on waterways, contributes to the severity of the flooding.
- The authorities emphasize the need for responsible environmental practices to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and prevent flooding.
