In the twists and turns of the news, there are times when nature reminds us with strength and vigour. This is what happened recently in the prefecture of Coyah, Guinea, where torrential rains caused extensive damage and cost the life of one person.
During a weekend marked by rainfall of rare intensity, Coyah was submerged by the waters. In just 48 hours, 124 millimeters of rain fell on the city, leaving behind a chaotic and devastating landscape. Flooded or destroyed houses, inhabitants having lost everything, injuries and considerable material losses, this is the sad picture with which the rescuers were confronted.
The prefecture of Coyah, located near Conakry, is known to be one of the wettest areas of maritime Guinea. But the dramatic consequences of these exceptional precipitations highlight the need to take measures to deal with unforeseen climatic events.
Following this tragedy, the Minister of Territorial Administration, Mory Condé, went there to assess the situation. According to the first observations, he pointed the finger at the anarchic constructions which would have aggravated the consequences of the floods. The question of urbanization and regional development therefore arises with particular acuity in this region.
Faced with this situation, it is essential that the authorities and the inhabitants of Coyah work together to put in place measures to prevent and adapt to extreme climatic phenomena. Strengthening infrastructure, raising public awareness of risks and promoting more sustainable urbanization measures are all avenues to explore.
This tragedy is a reminder once again of the importance of taking climate issues into account in our daily lives. The manifestations of nature are more and more frequent and intense, and it is our responsibility to put in place solutions to prevent disasters and protect populations.
As Coyah licks her wounds and tries to rebuild herself, it is essential that this situation serves as a reminder of the urgency of action. Adapting to climate change and combating the consequences of extreme phenomena must be at the heart of our concerns, for the well-being of present and future generations.
Sources:
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/08/08/actualite-la-prefecture-de-coyah-sous-les-eaux-apres-des-fortes-pluies/
– https://actualite.lefigaro.fr/flash-eco/guinee-un-mort-et-des-degats-materiels-apres-des-fortes-pluies-20230808
– https://www