ReliefWeb

This update is produced jointly by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) of Malawi and the United Nations Office of the Resident Coordinator in Malawi, in collaboration with humanitarian partners. The report is as of 12th February, 2018.

Background

Since 7th February, 2018, heavy rains have been received in most districts across the country causing floods in Salima, Karonga and Phalombe districts. A total of 894 households (approximately 2,200 people) have been affected in the districts while 102 households (approximately 560 people) have been displaced.
Assessments and verification exercises carried out showed that the main needs are food assistance and shelter, especially for those displaced. While DoDMA has managed to trigger the response in terms of food and non-food items (mostly shelter), there are still gaps. The assessed gaps include sanitary pads for girls and items for lactating and pregnant women, Chorine (HtH) for water treatment and water storage buckets and sanitary facilities.

Salima

• Salima received continuous rains from 7th to 10th February, 2018 which resulted to flooding in low lying areas of the district.

• An initial assessment and verification exercise was undertaken by Salima district council from 8 th toth February, 2018.

• Due to continuous reports of flooding incidences following continuous rains, another assessment was undertaken from 10th to 11th February, 2018.

Phalombe

• Floods were experienced in T/A Kaduya in Phalombe district on 9th February, 2018.

• Assessment and verification was carried out by district council officials on 10th February, 2018.

Karonga

• Floods were experienced in T/A Kyungu following bursting of North Rukuru River.

• An assessment and verification exercise is underway.