Heavy rains in Botswana from February 19 to 21, 2025, caused extensive flooding, impacting multiple districts. An assessment revealed significant displacement and school closures, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. The government issued warnings about continued rainfall and is seeking support from the Botswana Red Cross Society to address the crisis.
From February 19 to 21, 2025, Botswana experienced significant flooding due to heavy rainfall, affecting regions such as Boteti, Gaborone, Ghanzi, South-East, Kweneng, Kgalagadi, Mogoditshane, and Kgatleng. Rainfall levels reached 235mm in Kokotsha and 160mm in Mogoditshane, leading to flooded homes and disrupted transport networks. The floods contaminated water supplies and caused infrastructure damage.
An assessment conducted by the National Society from February 21-24 indicated widespread effects, particularly among vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and migrants living in low-lying areas. Schools were temporarily closed from February 20 to 24; however, Kgatleng District schools remained closed until March 4, 2025. Conditions worsened, displacing over 2,318 individuals and leaving 402 people in evacuation centers as of March 2, 2025, with many others returning home.
On February 19, 2025, the Botswana Government had warned of continuing above-average rainfall, which exacerbated the flooding situation. Factors such as La Niña and regional weather patterns contributed to the heavy rains, leading to the escalation of water-related issues. In response, the Government has sought assistance from the Botswana Red Cross Society (BRCS) as the ongoing storms have strained response capacities. A national disaster taskforce was established to address the crisis, with plans to aid 9,000 individuals across various districts.
The flooding in Botswana from February 19 to 21, 2025, resulted in widespread damage and displacement, particularly affecting vulnerable communities. The government has issued warnings and sought external assistance to manage the disaster, highlighting the need for strengthened response capacities amidst ongoing climatic challenges. The establishment of a national disaster taskforce signals coordinated efforts to provide support to the affected areas, targeting significant numbers of individuals in need.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
