At least 13 people have died and 35 others have been injured as relentless rains and flooding swept across Malawi between March 15 and 18, according to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma), which issued a statement yesterday.
The floods have affected 9,598 households, displaced 128 families and prompted the establishment of 12 evacuation centres across six councils.
Blantyre City, Chikwawa, Mangochi and Neno have reported the highest casualties.
In Blantyre City, two fatalities were recorded when walls collapsed, claiming the lives of a man and a child.
Chikwawa reported three deaths and two injuries, while Machinga recorded two deaths and 18 injuries.
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In Mangochi, two children lost their lives attempting to cross a flooded river, while Neno recorded three deaths. Other districts reported injuries and damage to property.
Many roads have also been rendered impassable, including the Chikwawa-Nsanje Road and the road to Thambani in Mwanza, complicating rescue and relief operations, according to the Dodma statement.
“Dodma has begun distributing relief assistance to affected households. Councils are continuing detailed assessments to determine the full extent of the damage and will submit comprehensive reports in due course,” the statement signed by Dodma commissioner Wilson Moleni says.
It adds that the department appeals to development partners, local and international non-governmental organisations and the private sector to support response efforts.
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Dodma says the support is critical in addressing immediate humanitarian needs, assisting in locating and aiding affected individuals and facilitating early recovery and rehabilitation of impacted communities.
Meanwhile, the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services says the heavy rainfall that has been falling in the country is expected to decrease in intensity.
“In many areas, clouds will persist, but from tomorrow, 20 March 2026, rain will only occur in scattered areas and in small amounts,” a statement by the department says.
It nevertheless warns that the risk of flash floods remains in some areas, especially where the soil is already saturated due to prolonged rain.
