03 May 2022 | 01:46 PM UTC
Tanzania: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 10
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds forecast across Tanzania through May 10. Disruptions ongoing in southern regions.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of Tanzania through at least May 10. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority has forecast showers and thunderstorms of varying intensities in all regions in its longer-term forecast. A strong wind advisory is also in place for parts of the eastern Indian Ocean coastline through May 4, with winds of up to 64 kph (40 mph) expected.
Heavy rainfall since late April has caused severe flooding in Mbeya and Songwe regions in southern Tanzania. Authorities have reported that the flooding has caused five fatalities, with five other people reported missing. Thousands of people have been displaced and over 700 homes damaged or destroyed by the flooding. Crops, roads, bridges, schools, and religious buildings have also been damaged. Among the worst-affected areas is Kyela District in Mbeya region, where over 3,000 people have been displaced and are being sheltered in emergency accommodation. Further heavy rainfall in these areas could exacerbate the flooding situation and hamper recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in heavily affected regions. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Indian Ocean coastline if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
