Malawi: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in parts of Blantyre and surrounding areas as of Feb. 14

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Blantyre and surrounding areas as of Feb. 14. The flooding has been triggered by heavy rainfall in the area since Feb. 12; authorities have reported at least four fatalities and four others are missing. One person died and two are missing in Blantyre city and three died and two more are missing in the neighboring Chiradzulu District. Tens of thousands of people have been affected by the flooding and damage to roads, bridges, and homes has been reported. Malawi's Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has forecast further isolated thunderstorms and heavy downpours across much of the country through at least Feb. 20, with southern, northern, and lakeshore areas likely to be most affected.

Hazardous Conditions
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 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 likely 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.

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.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Confirm medical appointments. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions. Do not drive on or through flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services