High Water Levels Threaten Floods, Ministry Warns
Residents are encouraged to report flooding or rising rivers to local authorities immediately.
LILONGWE, Malawi - The Ministry of Water and Sanitation has cautioned Malawians to prepare for high water levels in rivers across the country this week due to heavy rainfall, writes Victor Musongole.
In a statement Monday, the ministry said rivers in northern, central and southern Malawi are at risk of overflowing and causing floods from January 15-19.
“The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant for the potential occurrence of floods,” said Director of Water Resources James Chitete.
The most at-risk rivers include the Chambo, Makeye, Lufira, Kasitu and Songwe in the north; the Lingazi, Lilongwe, Linthipe and Kasangazi in the central region; and the Likhubula, Likangala, Mkulumadzi and Lisungwe in the south.
With soils already saturated from prior rainfall, the ministry emphasized any additional downpours could quickly lead to river line floods.
They advised those living near swollen rivers to prepare sandbags and identify potential evacuation routes.
“Given the current high water levels and saturated soils and ongoing rainfall may lead to river line floods in these areas,” the statement read.
“The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant.”
The ministry said it will continue monitoring water levels and issue any flood warnings as needed.
It also plans to dispatch response teams to assist any communities impacted by flooding.
Residents are encouraged to report flooding or rising rivers to local authorities immediately.