Over 100K Liberians risk floods, windstorms, and coastal erosion
Liberia’s Disaster Management Agency issues stark warning here, that more that 100,000 citizens are expected to be affected by floods, windstorms, and erosion this year.
By Kruah Thompson
Monrovia, Liberia, April 5, 2024—The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) of Liberia warns that over 100,000 people are expected to be impacted by floods, windstorms, and coastal erosion in Liberia this year.
National Disaster Management Agency executive director Ansu Dulleh says that more than 60 percent of coastal counties are projected to be affected, with the remainder hailing from the eastern, northern, and western interior of the country.
The Agency’s warning is based on scientific findings from the World Bank Group Climate Risk Profile-2024 on Liberia.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Culture Affairs, and Tourism weekly briefing here Thursday, April 4, in Monrovia, Mr. Dulleh also warned of extreme increases in rainfall patterns, anticipated windstorms, and a one-meter rise in sea levels.
He underscores challenges posed by these impending disasters, highlighting potential health risks such as flood-related impacts, disease outbreaks, and critical infrastructure vulnerabilities in water, sanitation, and hygiene. Moreover, he cautions that these phenomena could lead to human injuries and loss of lives.
Recent months have seen Liberia grappling with mudslides and devastating windstorms, impacting five counties and causing significant loss of lives and property.
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In particular, Director Dulleh issues specific alerts to vulnerable communities along Liberia’s coastline, urging them to remain vigilant against coastal erosion due to rising sea levels.
“The rainy season has not yet commenced, and we have already recorded 1,863 individuals affected by windstorms. If it intensifies and reaches its peak, the situation could worsen,” he emphasizes.
At the same time, he calls upon local and international partners for support while stressing the importance of preparedness, response, and preventive efforts to mitigate the impact of these impending disasters. Editing by Jonathan Browne
