Flooding Threatens Connectivity in Mozambique Due to Rising Incomáti River Levels

Heavy rains have caused a sharp rise in Incomáti River levels, threatening National Road Number One (N1) in Mozambique. This has led to flooding in homes and agricultural areas, particularly in Magude district. Authorities, including Óscar Sibia from ARA-Sul, are monitoring the situation as several basins exceed alert levels, and residents are advised to take precautions near affected rivers.
Recent heavy rainfall in the Incoluane area has led to a significant increase in the levels of the Incomáti River, jeopardizing connectivity between Maputo province and the rest of Mozambique. Authorities have reported that the water levels are nearing the platform of National Road Number One (N1), which serves as a critical link between Maputo and Gaza regions.
Óscar Sibia, the director of the Incomáti Basin Management Division at Southern Water Regional Administration (ARA-Sul), expressed concerns regarding the flooding impacting residential areas and agricultural fields in the Magude district. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and assessing the extent of the damage caused by the flooding.
The ARA-Sul Hydrological Bulletin has indicated that several basins, including Maputo basin on the Western Border, Madubula, Limpopo, Combomune, Chókwè, and Sicacate, are experiencing fluctuating water levels that exceed alert thresholds. The bulletin also reports a rise in hydrometric levels within the Limpopo basin, while levels in Macarretane remain below warning limits.
Looking ahead, the hydrological outlook within the next 24 hours suggests that the rising water levels in the Maputo, Incomáti, and Limpopo basins will persist, driven by runoff from upstream and localized rainfall. ARA-Sul has urged the community to exercise caution near these rivers due to the potential for dangerous swift currents. Furthermore, the authority encourages continuous monitoring of hydrological updates from relevant agencies.
In summary, the rising levels of the Incomáti River pose a significant risk to transport infrastructure and public safety in Mozambique, particularly concerning National Road Number One. Authorities are taking precautionary measures and urging residents to remain vigilant in light of the ongoing hydrological challenges. Continued monitoring of rain patterns and river levels is essential to mitigate future flooding impacts.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com