Nation implements memorial period following catastrophic storm affecting São Vicente and Santo Antão in Cape Verde
Cape Verde Islands Struggle in Aftermath of Tropical Storm Erin
Tropical Storm Erin has left a trail of destruction on the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão in Cape Verde. The storm, which brought an unprecedented 193 millimeters (7.6 inches) of rain within five hours on August 11, has resulted in at least nine deaths, displaced over 1,500 people, and caused extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and vehicles.
The government of Ulisses Correia e Silva has declared a state of calamity on the affected islands to unlock special crisis funds and authorize immediate infrastructure repairs. The flag at half-mast will be observed at all public buildings and diplomatic and consular representations in Cape Verde as a mark of respect during the national mourning period, which began today and will last for two days.
Rescue operations continue to locate missing individuals, with many communities cut off due to damaged roads and disrupted services such as electricity and clean water. The Minister of the Interior, Paulo Rocha, has warned that the number of deaths could increase, as there are still missing persons.
Recovery efforts include emergency search-and-rescue and the rebuilding of essential infrastructure. Assistance has also come from international organizations such as the TUI Care Foundation, which has pledged €100,000 to support long-term relief and recovery work on São Vicente and Santo Antão, working with local partners to help communities rebuild homes and restore livelihoods.
Infraestruturas de Cabo Verde is mobilizing intervention resources in partnership with local civil construction companies for emergency actions. The full extent of the damage means that recovery will require sustained support over coming months.
This disaster has highlighted Cape Verde’s vulnerability to extreme weather events potentially intensified by climate change, prompting calls for improved meteorological forecasting and disaster preparedness. The Portuguese government has expressed deep sorrow for the victims of the storm and offered condolences to the families, the brotherly Cape Verdean people, and the authorities, expressing all forms of solidarity.
All public events and manifestations are cancelled during the national mourning period. The people of Cape Verde face a long road to recovery, but with the combined efforts of the government, international aid organizations, and the community, they will rebuild and recover from this devastating event.
The weather during Tropical Storm Erin was exceptionally heavy, as Santo Antão and São Vicente received an unprecedented 193 millimeters (7.6 inches) of rain within five hours on August 11. This extreme weather has led to significant challenges in the recovery process, with many roads damaged and essential services disrupted.
