Congo Volcano Eruption: Death Toll Already at 31

Congo’s Mount Nyiragongo erupted on Saturday 22nd, destroying hundreds of homes on the outskirts of Goma. The day after the eruption, the lava had already killed 15 people and wrecked over 500 homes.

Residents said there was almost no warning before the disaster. Suddenly, the sky turned red, causing terror and panic in the city. Residents feared that the devastation caused by the eruption in 2002 would repeat itself, leaving hundreds dead again.

5,000 people in Goma crossed the border into Rwanda to escape the lava, while another 25,000 fled to the city of Sake. As the residents left their homes, panic and chaos marked the city.

Fortunately, Goma was mostly spared from the disaster and did not suffer the great consequences they had experienced in 2002. However, villages closer to the volcano were not so lucky. For them, Sunday was filled with the grief and uncertainty that followed the destruction.

In the eruption's aftermath, over 170 children were feared missing. UNICEF officials are organizing transit centers to provide aid for unaccompanied children during this time.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, a partnership between the government and World Bank was cut, leaving the observatory with no support. The lack of this essential tool left the population unprepared for the disaster. Mahinda told the Associated Press that “The observatory no longer has the support of the central government or of external donors, which explains why the volcanic eruption was such a surprise.”

Mount Nyiragongo is still active and earthquake tremors continue being recorded. The population is urged to remain vigilant and be prepared for what may come next. Government ministers visited Goma on Monday and assessed what help was needed. For those hurt by the eruption, aid is supposed to be on its way.

Bibliography

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