Update on Ongoing Rains and Flash Flooding in Windhoek
The Namibia Meteorological Services forecasts severe thunderstorms and flash flooding for Windhoek from March 15 to 21, prompting a coordinated response from local authorities. Measures are in place to assist affected communities and minimize risks. Residents are urged to take precautions, avoid dangerous areas, and utilize emergency contacts for assistance.
The Namibia Meteorological Services, alongside the Office of the Prime Minister, has issued a severe weather warning for March 15 to 21. Forecasts indicate moderate to heavy thunderstorms across several regions, including Khomas, with localized flash floods anticipated, leading to potential minor to significant impacts.
In light of the impending weather, the City of Windhoek announced that a multi-disciplinary team is prepared to take action. This team comprises officials from various sectors, including Human Settlements, Roads and Storm Water, Emergency Services, Disaster Risk Management, and the City Police, and is ready to assist and relocate vulnerable residents if required.
Since January, the City has responded to 21 flood-related incidents up until March 18, especially affecting the Otjomuise area in the 8de Laan Informal Settlement, which has impacted over 280 households. On March 18, the City relocated 181 informal dwellings to Farm 508, Goreangab, due to the flooding crises.
Tragically, a vehicle was swept away last month at the intersection of Robert Mugabe and Sean McBride streets. The City also reported three fatalities related to incidents in March, one being a pedestrian incident on Pelican Street in Hochland Park and another a drowning at Goreangab Dam.
To mitigate the risk of flooding, the City has initiated several measures, including stockpiling sandbags, maintaining shovels and emergency materials, and ensuring drainage systems remain clear. Residents are advised to evacuate to higher ground before water levels rise and refrain from treacherous activities in fast-moving waters.
Further advisories encourage residents not to walk, swim, or drive through flooded areas and to teach children to avoid dangerous water bodies. Individuals are encouraged to secure important documents in waterproof containers, have emergency contact information readily available, and ensure that all family members know how to act during floods.
Drivers are advised to choose alternative routes in case of flooded roads and to abandon stalled vehicles for safety. It is essential to follow traffic signs, heed law enforcement instructions, and drive cautiously, reducing speed on wet roads.
The City’s Flood Standby Team will continue to monitor the situation actively, conducting hotspot patrols and stormwater assessments during the rainy season. Regular updates will be disseminated as new information emerges.
Residents can reach the Emergency Control Room at 061211111 (available 24/7), the Roads & Storm Water Division at 0612902363 (during working hours), and the Customer Contact Centre at 0612903777 for any emergency reports or assistance regarding blocked stormwater.
The ongoing rains and subsequent flash flooding in Windhoek have prompted extensive preparations and responses from local authorities. A collaborative effort aims to safeguard vulnerable communities and minimize the impacts of severe weather conditions. Residents are urged to prioritize safety measures and stay informed about real-time updates regarding the flood situation in their area.
Original Source: economist.com.na
