Senegal delays the school year after deadly floods
At least five people have died after four days of torrential rain. Schools will now open on 12 October, and more rain is forecast.
Dakar — Senegal has postponed the start of the school year nationwide after days of heavy rain and flooding in which at least five people are reported to have died, according to Africanews.
Torrential downpours from Friday to Monday hit several regions and brought parts of the capital, Dakar, to a standstill. Primary and secondary schools, which had been due to open on Wednesday 7 October, will now start on 12 October.
The education ministry said the decision was taken mainly to keep children safe, and that the delay would give time to clean, disinfect and repair school buildings. A nationwide postponement of this kind has not been seen in recent years.
Clearing up, with more rain forecast
Crews are working to clear flooded roads and restore traffic, while the authorities try to protect water and electricity supplies and deliver emergency aid. Forecasts point to a high risk of further rain in the coming days.
Senegal's rainy season normally begins in June and tails off in October. In 2024, more than 56,000 people in the east of the country were affected when the Senegal River burst its banks.
The flooding comes weeks before Senegal is due to host the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games.
This report is based on reporting by Africanews.
