Botswana: NDMO warns of possible floods
GABORONE - Director of the Department of Meteorological Services (DMS), Mr Phetolo Phage says current rains could lead to flooding in some parts of the country.
Mr Phage said more rains could lead to flooding adding that, according to their seasonal forecast, the rains were expected.
He said because it has been raining continuously for the past few weeks, there is a possibility of flooding as the soil becomes saturated.
He said though there are some occasional breaks, more rainfall is still expected so Batswana should be prepared.
Mr Phage said they liaise with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to alert them about any possibilities.
According to the Operations Officer at NDMO, Mr Nkosiyabo Moyo, said they are ready to deal with possible floods.
Mr Moyo said the seasonal rainfall forecast was communicated to all districts, cities and towns by the Department of Meteorological Services before the commencement of the rainy season.
He said districts were advised to put in place preparedness measures, including the clearing of debris and garbage in storm water drainage systems, taking measures to replenish the inventory and also updating the directory of all stakeholders.
Mr Moyo said districts have also been encouraged to conduct public awareness campaigns on possible flooding in their areas.
Communities are advised to listen to the radio and television weather bulletins and are encouraged to share information with neighbours and parents must strictly supervise children at play to ensure that they do not drown.
He said pedestrians, motorists and bus drivers should not attempt to cross fast- flowing streams, flooded rivers or storm drains.
Road users are also advised to exercise caution and be on the lookout for slippery roads, potholes submerged in water and pools of water on the roads.
Communities are also warned to be wary of disease outbreaks, particularly cholera and malaria. Mr Moyo indicated that all districts, sub-districts, cities and towns have prepositioned disaster relief supplies which include tents, portable toilets, water tanks and jerry cans.
He said reports on flood contingency plans at districts clearly show that Disaster Management Committees at national and district level are on high alert.
Mr Moyo said funds are available from the National Disaster Relief Fund Order, adding that the fund is used to provide food baskets for affected households and for other relief related items, adding that the fund can always be replenished when there is a need.BOPA