Malawi Disaster Impact: 40,178 Households Affected Amid Ongoing Rainy Season

As of the latest report, 40,178 households in Malawi have been affected by various disasters, including storms and floods, with reported fatalities increasing to 39 individuals. DoDMA has reached over 80% of affected households with relief supplies, while continuing to monitor the situation.

The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has reported a significant rise in disaster-affected households due to the ongoing rainy season in Malawi. Currently, 40,178 households, affecting approximately 180,801 individuals, have been impacted by various disasters such as stormy rains, hailstorms, strong winds, floods, and lightning. This marks an increase from the previously reported 35,661 households as of February 7, 2025.

The update provided by DoDMA states that 809 of these households have been displaced. Moreover, the total death toll has risen from 35 to 39 individuals. Notably, 26 of the fatalities have been due to lightning strikes, while 13 resulted from infrastructural damage, including collapsed walls and roofs. Tragically, among the recent victims are two babies aged three months who were struck by lightning in Mzuzu City and Nkhata Bay District. The number of injuries has also surged to 483, primarily caused by lightning and structural collapses.

In response to this crisis, DoDMA has successfully delivered food and non-food items to over 80 percent of the affected households, providing essentials such as maize, beans, blankets, pails, and plastic sheets for temporary roofing. The department has assured that ongoing relief assistance efforts will continue, and they are committed to keeping the public informed regarding the status of disasters and any new developments.

This article highlights the alarming rise in disaster-affected households in Malawi due to the current rainy season, with the affected numbers reaching over 40,000. The report underscores the tragic loss of life and injuries sustained, mainly from lightning and structural damages. DoDMA’s response includes substantial relief efforts, delivering essential supplies to the majority of the affected households while promising to keep the public updated on ongoing disaster management efforts.

Original Source: malawi24.com