Liberia: Flood, Fire Disasters Hit Ganta, Leaving Many Homeless
Authorities are yet to provide an official statement on the disasters, but affected residents are appealing for urgent government intervention.
By Franklin Doloquee, franklin.doloquee@frontpageafricaonline.com
Ganta, Nimba County – The commercial hub of Nimba County, Ganta, was struck by a devastating double disaster on Friday, as both floods and fire wreaked havoc, leaving many households homeless.
By Franklin Doloquee, franklin.doloquee@frontpageafricaonline.com
The catastrophe began with torrential rains, resulting in severe flooding in the Glenyeluu community, a neighborhood in Ganta. Residents were caught off guard as the floodwaters swept through their homes while they slept, leaving them unable to take away most of their belongings. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported, but many homes remain affected.
“This incident has displaced us and is affecting our children’s education,” said Amos Tormehn, a flood victim. “We don’t know what to do next. There’s nowhere for us to go.”
Sam Delipoe, another victim, recounted that while they had experienced flooding in the past, this was by far the worst. He urged the government for immediate assistance, stating that many families were left without food or basic necessities, and their living conditions has become dire.
According to our Nimba County correspondent, the flood was caused by the overflow of the St. John River, which burst its banks following heavy rainfall. Many homes were flooded, and survivors are now seeking refuge in makeshift shelters as they await help and the water to subside.
Fire Fury
As residents of Glenyeluu grappled with the effects of the flood, another disaster struck in the LPMC Community, where a massive fire destroyed several homes and business establishments. The fire, which occurred on the same day, severely damaged properties belonging to prominent businessman Aaron Henry, also known as “Man Suffer.” His gas station, hotel, and several shops were affected.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. However, Larry L. Teah, an eyewitness, reported seeing flames erupting from the back of one of the structures, prompting him and others to rush to the scene to offer assistance. Teah, who owns the Larry Basic Academy located just 40 feet from the fire, said the incident caused panic among students and nearby marketers, who fled the area as the blaze engulfed the buildings.
No casualties have been reported, but the fire caused significant financial losses. Reports suggest that over 16 drums of gasoline were stored in the warehouse at the time of the fire, along with other valuable goods. Several shop owners also lamented that they were unable to salvage their merchandise or cash before their businesses were consumed by the flames.
Authorities are yet to provide an official statement on the disasters, but affected residents are appealing for urgent government intervention.
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