DAKAR, Senegal — Heavy rains have triggered widespread flooding across Senegal, leaving several people dead and disrupting roads, homes and businesses in Dakar and the northeastern Matam region as authorities warn of further rainfall.

Senegal’s Interior Ministry confirmed deaths and injuries linked to the flooding in Dakar and Matam. A building also collapsed in the southern city of Kaolack.

Local media reported that a 25-year-old woman and her four-year-old son died after floodwaters entered their home in Dakar’s Parcelles Assainies district.

Dakar records heavy rainfall as roads flood

Senegal’s meteorological agency, ANACIM, recorded 142 millimeters of rain within 24 hours in Rufisque, outside Dakar, and in Ranerou in the Matam region.

Dakar’s Yoff district recorded 138 millimeters over the same period.

The downpour flooded roads, disrupted traffic and affected homes and businesses across the capital and surrounding areas.

Senegal activates emergency flood response

Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Amine Lo warned that further rainfall was expected in the coming days.

He said the start of the school year could be postponed if floodwaters do not recede.

The government has activated an emergency response plan for Dakar, with authorities coordinating rescue operations, assisting affected residents and working to maintain essential services.

Flooding hits Senegal weeks before 2026 Youth Olympics

The floods are adding pressure to Dakar’s infrastructure less than a month before Senegal hosts the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics, scheduled to begin on October 31.

The international sporting event is expected to bring thousands of athletes, officials and visitors to Senegal.