Flood Death Toll in Ivory Coast Rises to 59 Since Mid-May, Government Confirms

The government of Ivory Coast has confirmed that at least 59 people have died in devastating floods that have swept across the country since mid-May, as torrential rains continue to trigger widespread destruction and displacement.

According to government officials, the heavy rainfall has inundated homes, roads, and public infrastructure, forcing thousands of residents to flee their communities. Several people have also sustained injuries, while many families have been left homeless as floodwaters submerged residential areas.

Authorities said emergency response teams have been deployed to rescue stranded residents, provide temporary shelter, and distribute relief materials to affected communities. The government has also urged citizens living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories issued by disaster management agencies.

The commercial capital, Abidjan, has been among the hardest-hit areas, with severe flooding disrupting transportation, damaging property, and affecting economic activities. Urban drainage systems have struggled to cope with the volume of rainfall, leading to flash floods in several neighbourhoods.

Meteorological experts warn that the rainy season is expected to continue in the coming weeks, raising concerns that the humanitarian situation could worsen if additional precautionary measures are not taken.

Government officials have pledged to strengthen flood prevention efforts, improve drainage infrastructure, and enhance emergency preparedness to reduce the impact of future disasters. They also appealed for solidarity and support for affected families as recovery efforts continue.

Flooding remains a recurring challenge in several West African countries during the rainy season, with rapid urbanisation, poor drainage systems, and climate-related weather extremes contributing to increasingly severe disasters. Humanitarian agencies continue to monitor the situation and assist vulnerable communities as the death toll and damage assessments evolve.