Niger: 339 dead, 1.1 million displaced as extreme rains batter Sahel nation

Torrential rains in Niger have left 339 people dead and more than 1.1 million displaced since June, state media reported Tuesday, updating a previous toll. 

Niger's interior minister last month stated that at least 273 were dead and more than 700,000 affected as extreme weather slammed the Sahel nation.

As of September 23, the floods had impacted more than 1.1 million people, resulting in 339 fatalities and leaving another 383 injured, state news agency ANP said Tuesday, quoting the country's civil protection agency.  

Areas throughout the country were affected, including the capital Niamey, where nine people had died.

The floods also resulted in "major losses" of equipment, livestock and food supplies. 

Also read: At least 14 dead after heavy rains trigger floods in Bosnia

A historic mosque in the Muslim nation's second city of Zinder, built in the mid-19th century, was destroyed. 

Some areas of the country recorded up to 200 per cent more rain than in previous years, according to the national meteorological agency. 

Due to the damage to schools and number of displaced families, the government postponed the start of the school year to the end of October. 

Normally lasting from June to September, Niger's rainy season often exacts a heavy toll, with 195 people dying in 2022.

Scientists have long warned that climate change driven by fossil fuel emissions is making extreme weather events such as floods more frequent, intense and longer-lasting.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.