Botswana Flood Death Toll Rises to Seven, Thousands Displaced
Days of relentless rainfall have triggered devastating floods, sweeping away homes, submerging streets, and forcing mass evacuations as authorities scramble to contain the crisis.
- Severe flooding has left at least seven dead, including three children.
- Over 1,700 people evacuated as homes, roads, and businesses are submerged
- President Boko calls for urgent infrastructure reforms to prevent future disasters
Botswana is reeling from catastrophic flash floods that have claimed at least seven lives, including three children, and forced thousands from their homes.
Days of relentless rainfall have triggered widespread devastation, with the capital, Gaborone, among the hardest-hit areas.
President Duma Boko, in a solemn address to the nation, confirmed the scale of the disaster, vowing continued efforts to mitigate further damage.
“The situation remains critical, but we are working tirelessly to reduce the impact,” he assured.
Over 1,700 people have been evacuated as rising waters submerged streets, swept away vehicles, and destroyed homes and businesses. A local dam overflowed, worsening the crisis and prompting authorities to shut down schools and block major roads.
Disaster officials cited poor drainage systems as a key factor in the flooding, particularly in low-lying regions. Boko stressed the urgency of long-term infrastructure reforms to better withstand extreme weather.
“We must reevaluate our infrastructure to ensure it can withstand both floods and droughts,” he stated, calling for nationwide preparedness measures.
With more rain forecasted in the coming days, emergency teams remain on high alert as Botswana battles one of its worst flood disasters in recent history.
