Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) has called on the public to inspect dwelling units and other infrastructures to ensure safety, as Malawi expects heavy rainfall due to ongoing oscillation of the inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) from yesterday, December 29, 2025 up to January 4 next year.
In DCCMS latest weekly weather update issued on Monday, December 29, signed by Director, Dr. Lucy Mtilatila, the ITCZ is enhancing cloud formation and precipitation such that total rainfall amounts could exceed 120 millimeters in some district, citing Nkhata Bay and Nkhotakota where the rainfall is significantly higher than the normal for this period.
“These intense and prolonged downpours elevate the risk of flash floods, especially in low-lying with poor drained systems, posing threats to human safety, infrastructures and disturbing agricultural activities,’’ she added.
Mtilatila stated that with particularly heavy rainfall forecast along the lakeshore, central and northern areas, Mwera winds will also be blowing on Lake Malawi at times.
She therefore advised the public to avoid crossing flooded, or fast flowing waters as threat of flash flooding is high; and to, also, inspect buildings as the walls and soils may be weakened by torrential rains.
The DCCMS Director further appealed that people should seek shelter in safer places when thunderstorms occur.
Recently, Malawi experienced overcast conditions marked by widespread thunderstorms and persistent rainfall that turned locally heavy in several areas.
The most significant rainfall was recorded on December 28, at Mchilawengo in Mzimba District, where 141.0mm of rain was recorded.
The most striking totals were recorded in the southern areas, particularly Chikwawa and Nsanje, where the cumulative rainfall between December 26 to 28 surpassed the average expected for the entire month.
At Supuni, Chikwawa, 177.0mm rain fell over the three-day period, exceeding monthly norms; similarly, Kasinthula in the same district recorded 150.8mm, while Lurwe in Nsanje recorded 150.2mm rainfall.
Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) spokesperson, Chipiliro Khamula, has since said the department already issued an alert to district councils to prepare Area Disaster Risk Management Committee to warn people of the impending disasters.
He said DoDMA has also made standby arrangements for the deployment of research and rescue team from national level to where disasters might occur.
‘‘We have boats in areas like Nsanje which help in rescue operations. We also provide relief items such as maize flour, blankets, and kitchen utensils to help those affected by disaster in such areas,’’ added Khamula.