2023-09-17 22:40:02
KINSASA, Democratic Republic of Congo (AP) — Torrential rains in northwest Democratic Republic of Congo caused a landslide that killed at least 17 people overnight, authorities said Sunday, warning that the number might rise to as rescuers sift through the rubble under collapsed homes.
The disaster occurred along the Congo River in the town of Lisal, in the northwestern province of Mongala, according to Matthieu Mole, president of the civil society organization Forces Vives. The victims lived in houses built at the foot of a mountain.
“Torrential rain caused a lot of damage, including a landslide that buried several houses,” he said. “The number of victims is provisional since there are still bodies under the rubble.”
Governor Cesar Limbaya Mbangisa said machinery was needed to help clear debris and try to rescue survivors. The governor also offered his condolences to the families of the victims and declared three days of mourning throughout the province.
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