Death toll rises to 200 in Congo’s flood

The death toll from flooding and landslides in eastern Congo hit more than 200, an official said Saturday as search efforts continue.

The disaster in Kale territory in South Kivu province occurred overnight Thursday with the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi being the most affected.

“At least 203 bodies have been recovered so far but the death toll could rise as the search efforts continue for more people missing,” Kalehe Administrator Thomas Bakenge told reporters.

Flooding was triggered by heavy rains which caused the Chibira River to burst its banks, destroying buildings and burying victims under the rubble.