The Ministry of Water and Sanitation has, through the Department of Water Resources, observed that at least 33 major rivers across the country risk flooding due to rainfall activities in the past few days.
The ministry says, in a statement released Monday, that the hydrometric monitoring system indicates that a substantial number of rivers are experiencing high water levels.
The rivers include Likhubula, Likangala, Mkulumadzi, Lisungwe, Mtemang’ombe, Nkasi, Phalombe, Mombezi, Domasi, Naisi, Thutchira and Ruo in the Southern Region.
The Central Region has Lingadzi, Lilongwe Linthipe, Rusa, Kasangazi, Mpasadzi, Lifuliza, Dwabanzi, Dwangwa, Bua and Nkula.
In the Northern Region, rivers to watch out for include Luweya, South Rukuru, Kasitu, Lunyang’wa, North Rukuru, Lufira, Makeye, Songwe, Nyungwe and Chambo.
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“The ministry emphasises that given the current high-water levels and saturated soils, ongoing rainfall may lead to riverine floods in these areas.
The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant for the potential occurrence of floods.
“The public is further advised to pay attention to the continuously available updates on water levels/floods from the Department of Water Resources to be safe from any flood-related threats. The ministry has since asked Malawians to exercise caution when crossing rivers or engaging in any activities within these water bodies,” the statement reads.
Currently, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma) has indicated that around 14 councils have been affected by disasters, mainly stormy rains, strong winds and lightning since the onset of the 2023-24 rainy season.
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The affected councils include Chiradzulu, Dowa, Kasungu, Lilongwe, Mangochi, Mulanje, Mchinji, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Ntcheu, Nsanje, Rumphi, Salima and Thyolo.
The disasters have affected approximately 21,379 people; that is, 4,751 households.
Additionally, the department recorded five deaths (all caused by lightning strikes) and 46 injuries, primarily due to stormy rains, with 29 males and 17 females among the injured.
