Mali: Climate crisis, the state reinforces its emergency response to bad weather
Mali is grappling with a severe rainy season in 2025, marked by widespread flooding and significant damage across multiple regions. During an August 14 meeting of the Interministerial Crisis and Disaster Management Committee, authorities reported an alarming preliminary toll: 31 flood events, 5 lightning strikes, and 4 cases of destructive winds have been recorded so far.
These extreme weather events have resulted in 21 fatalities, 33 injuries, and damage to 495 homes, directly affecting 9,155 people.
The Niger and Senegal rivers have reached their highest levels in three years, raising concerns of potential overflow, though the Bani River remains below critical thresholds.
The Manantali and Selingue dams continue filling as usual, but controlled water releases are being conducted to prevent disaster.
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The Malian government has expressed condolences to affected families and mobilized emergency response efforts.
Rescue operations, evacuations, and distributions of food and emergency kits are underway in the hardest-hit areas, including Koulikoro, Kidal, Nara, and San.
Preparedness measures are also being reinforced: rapid response teams are being trained, emergency kits pre-positioned, and citizen brigades deployed under the “Citizen Month” program.
Awareness campaigns through media and the SOS Sécurité app are urging continued public vigilance.
In facing these climate challenges, national unity, solidarity, and strict adherence to safety guidelines are the nation’s best defense.
Neil Camara
