Stefanus Nashama
Floodwaters have been detected in parts of the Oshana and Omusati regions, particularly in the western Cuvelai areas.
Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango confirmed this on Tuesday, attributing the flows to heavy rainfall.
“The active flows of water are observed at the Western part of the Cuvelai in Onekehe, Okalongo, Onembamba, Okanwa, Epoko of the Ogongo stream, and Onelago of the Western Outapi. This indicates flooding, and people are fishing in those areas,” he said.
Despite the flooding in these areas, Hango noted that the Oshigambo River, Engela, Shanalumono, and Ohaingu streams are not currently experiencing active water flows.
Additional flood activity has been observed in Okatyali, Uukwiyuushona, and Etayi constituencies.
Uukwiyu resident Sem Niiye expressed concern about the large amount of water flowing southward.
“There is a lot of water running here. Some people say it is coming from Angola,” Niiye stated.
Okatyali constituency councillor Joseph Mupetami has called residents to inform him when water reaches cattle posts.
“Fellow farmers, please tell me if the water reaches you to make preparations as usual,” Mupetami said.
Oshikoto region governor Penda Ya Ndakolo said there is no flooding in his region.
“I did not receive any reports of flooding in our region. I moved from Oniipa to Omuthiya, and the water is just standing,” he said.
Ya Ndakolo attributed the excess rainfall in the region to beneficial precipitation, emphasizing that it is a sign of good rain.
Councillors from the Okankolo and Olukonda constituencies in the Oshikoto region, Hans Nambondi and Fillimon Ndjambula, also confirmed that no flooding has been observed in their areas.
Efforts to get Ohangwena governor, Sebastian Ndeitunga were not successful.
Last week the Namibia Meteorological Service issued warnings about widespread thunderstorms and potential flash floods in several regions, including Oshana, Ohangwena, Omusati, and Oshikoto.
Chief forecaster Odillo Kgobetsi urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and avoid crossing flooded or fast-flowing waters.
