Seychelles President, Wavel Ramkalawan, has declared a state of emergency in response to an explosion at a store and heavy rainfall causing flooding.
The president’s statement mentioned that the explosion at the CCCL explosives store caused massive damage, and the flooding from heavy rains resulted in major destruction.
As a result, all schools will be closed, and only essential workers and travelers will have permission to move freely. This measure aims to allow emergency services to carry out essential work.
The explosion took place in the Providence industrial area on Mahe, the largest island of the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The presidency confirmed significant damage in the area and its surroundings, although further details were not provided.
Despite the state of emergency, the Seychelles International Airport remains operational, and ferry services between islands continue for visitors.
It’s worth noting that the Seychelles, a former British colony, is comprised of 115 islands and is considered the richest African country in terms of per capita gross domestic product, according to 2021 World Bank data.
