Landslide in northwest DR Congo leaves at least 17 dead, some missing

A landslide in the northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo caused by torrential rains claimed the lives of at least 17 people, authorities say, warning that the toll could rise as rescue operations continue.

The disaster took place on Sunday along the Congo River in the town of Lisal in Mongala province, according to local authorities, who added that the victims lived in homes built at the foot of a mountain.

Poverty and poor infrastructure have made communities in such areas more vulnerable to extreme weather such as heavy rains, which are becoming more frequent and intense in Africa due to climate change, United Nations climate experts said.