The Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has suspended school lessons in several districts as Tropical Storm Jude approaches. Authorities are taking precautionary measures based on weather forecasts predicting heavy rainfall and potential flooding. DODMA is working with humanitarian organizations to prepare for the storm’s impact and ensure safety for affected communities, especially in flood-prone areas.
The Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has announced the suspension of school lessons across several districts due to the incoming Tropical Storm Jude. This measure is effective immediately and will last until Thursday, aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff amidst the anticipated adverse weather conditions.
Dr. Rachel Chimboea Huey, the Principal Secretary of the Ministry, confirmed the closure, citing a weather advisory from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services. She stated, “We are responding to the forecast of Tropical Storm Jude, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall and significant winds to various parts of the country.” Furthermore, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation has alerted communities about potential flash flooding, especially in the southern districts where rivers, including the Shire, are at risk of overflowing.
As of this morning, Tropical Storm Jude has made landfall in neighboring Mozambique, raising alarms in Malawi regarding possible heavy rains. Correspondent George Mhango noted that while the storm’s current impact has been minor, with only scattered showers in Blantyre, meteorologists warn of future intensification. “However, the Department of Climate Change has warned that the storm will intensify, and we are expecting more severe weather as the day progresses,” he remarked.
Experts project that some areas could receive upwards of 100mm of rain within the next 24 hours, potentially leading to significant flooding. George Mhango emphasized the danger this poses, particularly in flood-prone districts such as Chikwawa and Nsanje, where the swelling of the Shire River could threaten local livelihoods.
The Department of Disaster Management (DODMA) is collaborating with the Red Cross and other organizations to prepare for the storm’s impact. Authorities are actively working to ensure emergency supplies, including food and shelter, are accessible for those affected while issuing safety alerts to the public prompting precautionary measures.
Malawi faces renewed challenges as it continues to recover from the destructive impact of Cyclone Freddy experienced in 2023. Mhango observed, “People are understandably nervous,” reflecting on the community’s anxiety about re-experiencing similar devastation from Tropical Storm Jude.
The precautionary closure of schools across Malawi in anticipation of Tropical Storm Jude underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens during hazardous weather conditions. With predictions of significant rainfall and flooding, local authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and prepare adequately for emergency situations. As communities grapple with the potential challenges posed by this storm, their resilience is being tested once more, following the impacts of previous weather disasters.
Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za
