Source: United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)
While rainfall eased last week in parts of southern Africa, heavy rains continued in central Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, western Botswana and northern Namibia. Southern Madagascar, which has been experiencing drought, and northwestern Angola also received substantial rainfall. Rainfall was below average across parts of southern and northern Mozambique, Tanzania and parts of southern
Angola.
This week, heavy rains are expected to continue over northern Mozambique and parts of Angola. From 8th to 15th February 2011, heavy rains are likely along the coast of Madagascar, northern Mozambique, Malawi, southern Tanzania, eastern Zambia and southwestern Angola.
River levels will continue to swell increasing the risk of flooding throughout the region.
Water levels at Katima Mulilo in the Caprivi Strip have increased 4 meters last week to 4.33 meters this week on 1st February, as compared to the normal level of 1.57 meters for this time of year.
Flows in the Zambezi River continue to rise. The Kariba Dam is at 68.7% capacity, significantly above normal for this time of year. To keep its levels in check, the Kariba dam will increase its discharge from 4200 to 7100m3/s.
This water will flow down to Cahora Bassa which in time will have to release further discharges.
Floods Threaten Zimbabwe