Rising river levels prompt flood warning
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
● Authorities mobilise relief efforts
The Department of Water Resources has issued a nationwide alert, urging the public to exercise caution following a sharp rise in water levels in several major rivers.
The department, which operates under the Ministry of Agriculture, said monitoring data from the past 24 hours shows unusually high river levels in many catchment areas.
Officials warned that the situation could lead to flooding in the coming days if the current rainfall pattern continues.
According to the department, areas along the lakeshore and parts of the Central Region are at heightened risk.
The warning comes as heavy rains continue to affect large parts of the country.
Hydrological forecasts indicate that several rivers are likely to exceed normal levels during the ongoing rainy period.
The department has advised communities to avoid settling close to riverbanks and flood-prone areas.
Members of the public have also been warned against attempting to cross swollen rivers, as water currents may be strong and unpredictable.
Authorities say early compliance with these safety measures could prevent loss of life and injuries.
The warning follows recent flooding incidents reported in some districts.
Nkhotakota is among the districts that have already experienced flooding, with devastating consequences.
Reports indicate that floods in the area have resulted in deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction.
Infrastructure such as roads, schools, houses, and bridges has been damaged or washed away.
Disaster management authorities say the damage has disrupted access to basic services in affected communities.
According to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA), the impact of the rains has been significant.
DODMA said the heavy rainfall experienced between December 22 and December 28 led to multiple casualties.
The department confirmed that three people lost their lives during the period.
An additional 41 people sustained injuries after houses collapsed due to the heavy rains.
In a statement signed by DODMA Commissioner Wilson Moleni, the department said thousands of people have been affected.
Moleni said approximately 32,422 individuals from 7,205 households have been impacted so far.
The affected households are spread across 13 local government areas.
DODMA has since activated its emergency response teams to support affected communities.
Moleni said the department is providing humanitarian assistance, including food supplies and basic household items.
Other relief items being distributed include blankets, plastic sheets for temporary shelter, and kitchen utensils.
He said assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage.
Several districts have been identified as affected by the flooding.
These include Blantyre, Chikwawa, Nsanje, Dowa, Nkhotakota, Mulanje, Lilongwe, Nkhata Bay, Karonga, Chitipa, Dedza, and Salima.
Authorities say more districts could be affected if heavy rains persist.
The Department of Water Resources says it will continue monitoring river levels and issuing updates.
The department has urged communities to stay alert and follow guidance from local authorities.
Officials have also called on residents to cooperate with disaster response teams during evacuations if necessary.
Government agencies say preparedness and early action remain key to minimizing the impact of floods this rainy season.
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