Tanzania: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across much of the country as of April 26

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across many parts of Tanzania as of April 26. Heavy rainfall has been affecting much of the country over recent months and has triggered flooding in many areas; authorities have reported at least 155 fatalities and 236 others injured across the country since January, as well as affecting more than 51,000 households and 200,000 people. More than 10,000 homes have been affected across many parts of the country and roads, bridges, and other infrastructure have suffered damage in affected areas. Heavy downpours in recent weeks associated with the March-May rainy season have exacerbated the situation, leading to a sharp rise in the death toll, which has more than doubled in the past two weeks, and widespread disruptions.

Disruptions in flood-affected areas will likely continue for some time as response and recovery operations continue. Further rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of the country over the coming days; as of April 26 a yellow heavy rain warning (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) is in place across western and eastern regions and a yellow strong wind warning is in place for eastern coastal and island regions. Further showers are likely throughout the remainder of the rainy season through May. Heavy downpours will likely trigger additional flooding and hamper ongoing relief efforts.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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.

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.

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.