Torrential rains in Niger kill 15 more people

NIAMEY, Niger: Torrential rains in Niger have killed at least 15 more people, regional authorities said on Sunday, the latest casualties of the downpours lashing the African nation.

Heavy rains have been drenching Africa´s Sahel region since June and the latest victims in Niger come on top of at least 217 people who have died across the country in that time, according to authorities. More than 350,000 people have been affected and last week rising floodwaters nearly cut off the capital Niamey from the rest of the country before retreating. Drinking water and electricity supplies have been affected in some areas, according to broadcasters.