Persistent rainfall in the West African nation of Senegal has caused flooding in several areas. Daily life has been disrupted as roads have become waterlogged and buildings damaged. The government has reported casualties—including deaths and injuries—in Dakar and other regions. Officials have also warned of further rainfall in the coming days.
Flash floods have severely disrupted transportation across several areas, including the capital, Dakar. This situation arises as Senegal prepares to host the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics, scheduled to begin on October 31. The floods have also posed a challenge to the country’s infrastructure.
According to the Ministry of the Interior, deaths and injuries resulting from the rain have been reported in Dakar and the northeastern city of Matam. A building collapse has also been reported in the southern city of Kaolack; local media have reported the deaths of a woman and her child.
Prime Minister Amadou Ba stated that there is a high probability of continued rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday. He added that if floodwaters do not recede, the new academic session—scheduled to begin this week—might be postponed.
According to Senegal’s meteorological agency, ANACIM, 142 millimeters of rainfall was recorded over a 24-hour period in Rufisque (on the outskirts of Dakar) and Ranérou (in the Matam region). During the same period, the Yoff area of Dakar received 138 millimeters of rain.
Officials have intensified relief and rescue operations in the affected areas and have urged the public to heed weather-related warnings.
