Fews Net Warns of Flood Risks as Heavy Rains Persist

Fews Net warns that persistent heavy rains and saturated ground across southern Africa could trigger flooding, with eastern Zimbabwe among high-risk areas as authorities urge vigilance (image source)

The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (Fews Net) has issued a warning that continued heavy rains and saturated ground conditions across southern Africa could result in dangerous water accumulation and flooding, with torrential downpours forecast for next week.

In its latest outlook, Fews Net said intense and persistent rainfall is expected in eastern, northern and central parts of the region, while western and southern areas are likely to receive lighter showers. The agency warned that southern Mozambique, eastern Zimbabwe, eastern South Africa and east-central Madagascar face heightened flood risks due to anticipated torrential rainfall.

The report noted that consecutive weeks of rainfall have already worsened ground conditions and triggered flooding in Zambia, Madagascar, Malawi and Mozambique, with the situation expected to persist. Over the past week, moderate to heavy rainfall continued across northern and eastern southern Africa, including eastern Zimbabwe and southern Mozambique.

South-central Africa, which includes Zimbabwe, has recorded rainfall levels ranging from 120% to more than 200% of normal in many areas. In contrast, western and southern regions such as Angola, western Namibia, southwestern South Africa and southern Madagascar have experienced below-average rainfall, estimated at between 1% and 80% of normal levels.

(image source)

In Zimbabwe, the Department of Civil Protection reported that heavy rains during the 2025–26 season have already resulted in 70 deaths, left 51 people injured and destroyed more than 1,000 homesteads. Manicaland has been the most affected province, with 510 households impacted and 41 fatalities recorded. Mashonaland East reported 192 affected households, Mashonaland Central 130, and Mashonaland West 127, with the latter recording 19 deaths.

Authorities have urged communities in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and to follow guidance from disaster management officials as the rainy season continues.