Widespread Destruction in Cape Verde
Tropical Storm Erin has caused catastrophic damage across the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão in Cape Verde. Torrential rainfall and devastating mudslides have paralyzed the archipelago, leaving thousands homeless. Randolph Nahar, a Dutch project developer with strong ties to the islands, reports entire neighborhoods submerged under water and mud. "Many residents have lost everything - homes completely flooded with thick mud," he stated from Almere, Netherlands.
Infrastructure Collapse
Critical infrastructure has been severely compromised, with numerous roads rendered impassable after asphalt layers were washed away. The hilly terrain exacerbated mudslides that deposited debris across transportation networks. According to Cape Verde's Inforpress news agency, several areas remain without electricity or telecommunications.
Dutch Fundraising Initiative
Nahar has launched an emergency fundraising campaign with a €200,000 target to address immediate humanitarian needs. "Entrepreneurs and citizens have united knowing the government faces enormous challenges," he explained. Funds will provide essential supplies including food, clean water, hygiene kits, and generators to compensate for unstable power grids.
National Mourning Declared
The storm has claimed at least eight lives - seven from flooding and one by electrocution. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva has declared two days of national mourning, calling the loss of life "irreparable." The disaster highlights Cape Verde's vulnerability to extreme weather despite its location 900km west of mainland Africa.
This archipelago nation of approximately 600,000 people has significant diaspora communities, including about 30,000 Cape Verdeans in Rotterdam alone. Popular with European tourists for its beaches and water sports, the islands now face a long recovery from Erin's devastation.