Dakar, Senegal – Senegal’s National Agency for Civil Aviation and Meteorology (Anacim) has issued a high-alert warning for heavy rainfall expected across multiple regions between September 5th and 7th, 2025, raising concerns of widespread flooding.
Anacim forecasts localized rainfall exceeding 100mm within a short timeframe, accompanied by thunderstorms. The alert underscores Senegal’s vulnerability to seasonal flooding during the wintering rains, a period when heavy precipitation can overwhelm infrastructure and displace communities.
the northern and eastern parts of the country are under particularly close observation, with the Senegal River at risk of overflowing due to anticipated rainfall in neighboring Mali and Mauritania. Specific areas designated as high-risk include Podor and Matam. Moderate risk levels have been identified in Bakel, Kanel, Diourbel, Mbacké, and Saint-Louis. While Dakar, Thiès, Kaolack, Fatick, Kaffrine, Tambacounda, and Ziguinchor are currently classified as low-risk, residents are cautioned to remain vigilant due to the potential for sustained rainfall.
Anacim warns of potential impacts including residential flooding, river overflows, meaningful agricultural damage, traffic disruptions, the danger of lightning strikes, and an increased risk of waterborne diseases stemming from standing water.
The agency strongly advises citizens to exercise extreme caution, particularly while traveling and near bodies of water.Fishermen are urged to heighten their vigilance. Authorities are mobilizing resources to mitigate potential flood damage as the first rains of the wintering season begin to fall.
