Met Office issues ‘danger to life’ warning as flood-hit Malawi brace for more rain
The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has issued another warning saying people should brace for another wave of heavy rains that will trigger possibly life-threatening flooding , especially in low lying and flood prone areas.
According to the warning issued by the Department’s Director Jolamu Nkhokwe, Central, Southern and Lakeshore areas of the country will experience heavy rainfalls up to Thursday January 9 2019, a situation that might trigger the occurrence of flash floods in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Last week, the Department also warned of heavy rains that subsequently resulted in flash floods in some areas including Lilongwe City where 403 households were affected.
And in the latest statement, Nkhokwe says the rains are likely to be associated with strong winds and lightning and advised people to avoid seeking shelter under trees and weak infrastructure.
“The general public is further advised to stay away from power lines and electrical wires and report downed power lines to Escom officials, law or other relevant authorities,” added Nkhokwe.
Meanwhile, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), is urging people living in flood-prone areas to move upland.
DoDMA is airing radio programmes and jingles on various radio stations, raising awareness of the imminent flooding.
The radio programmes and jingles are carrying various messages, including what people should be doing before and during floods.
“Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
“Do not drive into flooded areas and drifts. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and your vehicle can be quickly swept away.
“Stay away from power lines and electrical wires and report downed power lines to Escom officials, law or other relevant authorities.Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters, ” advises the Department.
DoDMA, led by Vice President, Everton Chimulirenji, who is also the Minister responsible for Disaster Management Affairs, visited and donated relief items to victims of flash floods in Lilongwe.
Locatipns that were affected include Areas 22, 24, Ngomani, Kaliyeka, Chipasula and Mgona.
The relief assistance includes food and non-food items such as kitchen utensils, rice, blankets, soya pieces and some cash.
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