A bus swept away by floods in Oued Tata,2 dead and 14 missing (provisional report)
Tata – A coach was swept away at Oued Tata by floods following the very heavy stormy precipitation which fell on Friday evening in the province of Tata,causing two deaths,while 13 passengers were rescued and 14 others missing ,according to a provisional report from local authorities.
Following thes remarkable floods, a lady was also reported missing at Douar Ighourten, Tagzmirt commune under the Caidat de Ides, specifies the same source.
These exceptional stormy precipitations caused a rise in the reservoirs of several rivers to unprecedented levels, that of Oued Tata having reached, alone, 2,300 m3 per second (m3/s) while Oued Zguid recorded 1,900 (m3 /s).
moast areas under this province recorded various material damages. According to a provisional assessment:
– Total or partial collapse of certain homes, previously evacuated.
– Total or partial collapse of certain technical installations.
– Damage to several road sections and disruption of traffic on several axes.
The public authorities,all the departments concerned as well as the various stakeholders have mobilized all logistical and human resources to intervene immediately,deal with this exceptional situation and provide help and assistance to citizens,the same source adds.
Efforts continue to find the missing and restore the functioning of road and service networks in the province.
how can individuals contribute to disaster preparedness and response in thier local communities?
Interview: Analyzing the Impact of the Oued Tata Floods with Disaster Management Expert Dr. Amina Elhaj
Time.news editor: Today we are speaking with Dr. Amina Elhaj, a disaster management expert, to discuss the catastrophic floods in Oued Tata that have caused two fatalities and left 14 individuals missing. Dr. Elhaj, can you provide us with an overview of the situation?
Dr. Amina Elhaj: Certainly. This tragic event unfolded when heavy stormy precipitation struck the province of Tata, leading to unprecedented flooding that swept away a bus carrying passengers. The immediate aftermath has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, alongside meaningful distress, with 14 individuals currently unaccounted for. The floodwaters in Oued Tata reached alarming levels, with a flow rate of 2,300 m³/s, indicating the severity of the rainfall and subsequent flooding.
Time.news Editor: What can you tell us about the broader impact of these floods on the region?
Dr. Amina Elhaj: The ramifications are extensive. Beyond the tragic loss of life,the floods have led to ample material damage across the province. We are seeing total or partial collapses of homes and critical infrastructure, which poses severe risks to the safety and stability of the affected communities. Roads have been damaged, disrupting transportation and emergency efforts. Local authorities and various stakeholders are mobilizing resources to address this crisis and assist displaced citizens, but the extent of the damage calls for a meticulous and sustained response.
Time.news Editor: How should local authorities and residents prepare for such extreme weather events in the future?
Dr.Amina Elhaj: Planning is key when facing the potential for extreme weather. Local authorities should invest in robust flood management systems and infrastructure that can handle significant rainfall. Regular risk assessments and community engagement programs can educate residents about emergency procedures, especially in flood-prone areas. Additionally, establishing early warning systems can help in timely evacuations to prevent loss of life. For residents, understanding their surroundings and having a personal emergency plan—which includes access to emergency supplies, communication plans, and knowledge of safe routes—is crucial.
Time.news Editor: With climate change influencing weather patterns, are we likely to see more of these extreme weather events?
Dr. Amina Elhaj: Yes, climate change is indeed intensifying weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe storms. Regions that have previously experienced moderate weather may now be vulnerable to extraordinary storm events. It’s imperative that communities adapt to these changes through sustainable practices, improved infrastructure, and enhanced disaster response strategies. Governments and organizations must prioritize disaster resilience to safeguard lives and property against future climatic threats.
Time.news Editor: what advice would you give to readers on a personal level regarding extreme weather preparedness?
Dr. Amina Elhaj: I encourage readers to stay informed about weather forecasts and potential warnings in their area. Having an emergency kit ready at home—stocked with food, water, medical supplies, and crucial documents—is essential. Additionally, creating a family communication plan ensures everyone knows what to do during emergencies. supporting local disaster response initiatives can make a substantial difference in building community resilience.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, dr. Elhaj, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. It’s clear that while the floods in Oued Tata have caused devastating impacts, proactive measures can definitely help mitigate similar incidents in the future.