Congo floods death toll surpasses 400

Kivu: At least 400 people have been died as a result of rains, floods and landslides in the southern province of Kivu in the African country of Democratic Republic (DR) of Congo since last week.

According to foreign media reports, the provincial governor said on Monday that due to the heavy rains during last week, several houses were damaged due to landslides and mudslides in the rivers, while several villages were destroyed in the Kalehe area of South Kivu.

He said that 401 deaths have been reported so far as a result of rains and floods.

Authorities told that rescue teams failed to clear the muddy roads due to heavy rains, which caused the residents to face a lot of difficulties.

Reports stated the provincial government said it was evacuating flood-affected residents to safer places while the government was also providing medical aid to the injured, including funeral expenses for the victims.

Government spokesman Patrick Moya said the president declared national mourning in the country on Monday due to the floods.

Reports suggest that more than 120 people were killed after floods occurred in Kinshasa, the capital of Congo in December last year, due to heavy rains.