Flash Update V: Southern Africa Floods, 19 January 2015

Southern Africa Forecast

According to the forecast for 18 to 24 January 2015, Malawi and Mozambique will continue to experience heavy rainfall, particularly in the north. In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Chedza, heavy rains are set to continue across most of Madagascar, including the capital Antananarivo, while torrential rains are also forecast for the southern regions of Tanzania as well as northern Zambia. These rains could worsen the flood situation in the region.

Madagascar

According to preliminary information, 13 people have been killed, 51,341 affected and 9,412 displaced by Tropical Storm Chedza. The western region of Menabe was hardest hit, as well as the eastern districts of Manakara, Mananjary, Nosy Varika (Vatovavy-Fitovinany) and Farafangana (Atsimo Atsinanana). Antananarivo was also impacted by the associated heavy rains, where 23,655 people are affected and 6,683 displaced. See attached map. Search and rescue operations, as well as other support measures, are being undertaken, and assessments are continuing.

The Government has mobilized US$1.3 million for the response, and partners continue to support the provision of assistance. More rains are expected over the island, including over Antananarivo.

Malawi

The number of people displaced is still estimated at 22,000 households (121,000 people), with 54 people killed and 153 still missing. The number of people affected through damage to crops is estimated at 638,000 (116,000 households), and an estimated 200,000 learners are not able to attend school due to their schools being flooded or used for temporary shelter.

Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Nsanje and Chikwawa, as are relief operations - including the distribution of food and non-food items. All (local) clusters have now met and most clusters have submitted their respective response plans. A draft of the consolidated Preliminary Response Plan is being finalized.

Mozambique

Over 52,000 affected by floods

According to preliminary data released by Government, 52,700 people have been affected by the current floods, including 31,200 people in Zambezia Province and 15,400 in Nampula Province. In Zambezia Province alone, 21 people have been killed by floods between 12 and 15 January.

Rescue operations, led by Government, are ongoing, although these are being hindered by persistent heavy rains, strong waves, overflowing rivers and damaged or blocked roads. Air bridges have been established, meaning food and non-food items can now be dispatched to isolated areas.