One dead, one missing and nearly 500 households affected by heavy rains in Gemena

Heavy rain and strong winds struck Gemena overnight from Friday to Saturday, leaving one person dead, one missing and several injured. A 15-year-old boy was swept away by the current in Sukia, while a search continues in Salongo 2 for a young man who disappeared. Nearly 500 households were affected, and several neighborhoods and seven shops at the central market were damaged; flooding of the Mombonga River is also disrupting travel. Residents are calling on authorities to improve stormwater drainage and carry out works to reduce flood risks.