Heavy rains and dangerous flooding has killed more than a dozen people in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in East Africa, and left thousands homeless this week. The Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) said the country has not witnessed such extreme rains since 1961 when it became an independent nation. The unexpected historical floods led to the loss of lives and properties as many houses and cars were swept away in floods to the sea. Many were displaced especially children in the flood confusion. As rains continue to pound Tanzania, health officials are also concerned about the potential for a cholera outbreak. However, local police officials say they are frustrated by the refusal of some people to abandon their homes during the rain. TMA director reported that a cloud, which has formed over the Indian Ocean due to building of pressure, will continue to cause heavy rains in some areas. The situation will last for the next two days.
BBC reported that business and life in the city has come to a virtual halt, with several principal roads and bridges either destroyed or flooded. The government has provided some temporary accommodations for those who have been flooded out of their homes though some citizens claim to not received any Government attention. The Citizen reported that the Red Cross is sending food relief for stranded Tanzanians, while the Tanzania People’s Defense Forces (TPDF) is engaged in rescue operations. In the event the President of the United republic sympathised with the victims: "My heart goes to all those who have been affected by the disaster from the heavy rains which continue in Dar es Salaam."
On the outset, the city has been a victim to floods for many years due to poor city planning: citizens have left to form residents in dangerous valley like in Jangwani and Manzese. Also poor sewage system lead to floods in the slightest of rains as the syetem blocks the natural flow of material over the surface.
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