video transcript

Heavy rains create a new kind of problem in Baghdad -- flooding. After almost 24 hours of rainfall, streets turn to rivers. Some appear to welcome the diversion. Traffic is moving slowly along the main streets. Side streets are also waterlogged. And there is there's little relief indoors. (SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) UNNAMED OWNER OF HOUSE SAYING: "Water is coming in the house from the main street. All the houses and buildings are flooded. " Some blame the flooding on outdated sewer systems hampered by widespread corruption. Prime Minister Nuri al Maliki came to see for himself. The rainfall prompted the government to declare an official holiday. But that may offer little comfort for those who have to wade through water just to cross the street.