A severe flood occurred in Coyah, Guinea, on the night of September 18-19, 2026, resulting in multiple victims and significant material damage. Several families were forced to evacuate their homes due to the rising waters. The flood affected various areas, including Sambaya, where a bridge collapsed under the pressure of the water. Residents described the night as particularly difficult, with many struggling to cope with the aftermath.
Yaya Conté, a witness from Sambaya, recounted his experience of the flood. He stated that the rain began at 8 PM, and as he was at a sales point near the river, the water level started to rise. When the bridge suddenly gave way, the entire bus station was inundated, sweeping away vehicles and claiming lives. The authorities later initiated evacuation operations to assist those affected.
Ousmane Bangoura, the first muezzin of Coyah, reported losing several belongings, including mattresses and personal items, when his residence was flooded. He called on the authorities to provide assistance to the displaced families and implement measures to prevent future disasters. The situation remains dire, with many residents left to pick up the pieces and rebuild their lives.
The flood also had a significant impact on educational infrastructure. The Batouya 1 primary school was severely affected, with waters submerging the establishment and destroying important documents, including teacher files, student records, and diplomas. The school's director, Mamadouba Camara, emphasized that the damage is substantial and urged the authorities to intervene quickly to avoid disrupting the upcoming school year.
Sékou Bintou Bangoura, the head of the Centre neighborhood, expressed his disappointment over the human and material losses recorded in his area. He also advocated for assistance to be provided to those affected by the flood. Mabinty Sylla, another victim, described her experience as a day of despair, with part of her home's wall collapsing under the pressure of the water, leaving her belongings exposed.
In the aftermath of the disaster, several families remain in a difficult situation, with some taking shelter at the Maison des jeunes in Coyah. The victims are now calling for urgent assistance to mitigate the effects of the flood and restore normal living conditions. The authorities have been urged to provide support to those affected and take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the situation continues to unfold, the full extent of the damage and the number of displaced individuals are becoming clearer. The flood has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the region. The authorities face a significant challenge in responding to the crisis and providing adequate support to those affected.
Key points
- Multiple families were displaced due to the flood in Coyah, Guinea.
- The flood destroyed important documents and infrastructure, including a primary school.
- Authorities have been urged to provide assistance to victims and implement measures to prevent future disasters.
