Northern Namibia Rain Levels Too Low for Flash Floods, Expert Says.
According to Leonard Hango, a chief hydrologist at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, recent rainfall in northern and central Namibia poses no immediate flood risk.
Hango reports that Angola's Cunene region has seen limited rainfall, easing concerns about water flowing into the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin. The basin spans 129,000 km2 and features seasonal wetlands with integrated waterways known locally as ishana.
"People should not panic. Floods only follow heavy rainfall events, which has not happened up to this point," Hango said.
The basin's floodplains benefit local communities by providing fish, livestock water, thatching grass, and reeds. These areas serve as habitats for birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Yet severe flooding can damage homes, crops, and roads, disrupt rural services, and force people from their homes.
The Oshana Regional Council has built 11 earth dams to store flood and rainwater, addressing water scarcity during dry periods.
The Namibian Meteorological Services issued alerts about potential flash floods in northern regions last week. Senior leader Malakia Shoombe of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority advised residents to cross the water in groups, holding hands. He cautioned against crossing water pans under the influence of alcohol, particularly addressing pensioners.
According to Leonard Hango, a chief hydrologist at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, recent rainfall in northern and central Namibia poses no immediate flood risk.
Hango reports that Angola's Cunene region has seen limited rainfall, easing concerns about water flowing into the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin. The basin spans 129,000 km2 and features seasonal wetlands with integrated waterways known locally as ishana.
"People should not panic. Floods only follow heavy rainfall events, which has not happened up to this point," Hango said.
The basin's floodplains benefit local communities by providing fish, livestock water, thatching grass, and reeds. These areas serve as habitats for birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Yet severe flooding can damage homes, crops, and roads, disrupt rural services, and force people from their homes.
The Oshana Regional Council has built 11 earth dams to store flood and rainwater, addressing water scarcity during dry periods.
The Namibian Meteorological Services issued alerts about potential flash floods in northern regions last week. Senior leader Malakia Shoombe of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority advised residents to cross the water in groups, holding hands. He cautioned against crossing water pans under the influence of alcohol, particularly addressing pensioners.
