A total of 38 houses have been completely damaged while 109 have been partially damaged in Karonga following a heavy downpour in the district.

According to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Karonga District Council reports that 619 households have been affected in Traditional Authority Kyungu: following the swelling of the North Rukuru River.

In statement issued by DoDMA’s Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs Charles Kalemba says the threat of fresh flash floods remains high with the area experiencing heavy downpour.

Kalemba said: “The floods have damaged roads and bridges; hindering essential service delivery in the process.

“Currently, the department is working with the affected council in deploying a search and rescue team to carry out life-saving interventions, conduct rapid assessments and provide basic needs to affected communities.”

Kalemba added that the Department received brief preliminary report from Nkhotakota District Council stating that Dwangwa area experienced heavy rains that led to the flooding of Dwangwa and Kaombe Rivers, affecting surrounding areas.

DoDMA has since provided maize, maize flour, beans, pails, blankets and plastic sheets to communities affected by floods in Karonga.

The department further urges communities in flood prone areas that are experiencing heavy rains to take heed of flood warnings and move to safer and higher areas.