Niël Terblanché
The Hydrological Services of Namibia have issued urgent recommendations for infrastructure repairs following severe flooding in Windhoek since the start of the year.
A comprehensive hydrological assessment conducted on 13 February by a team led by Fillemon Shatipamba identified several areas of concern across the capital city.
The assessment revealed significant structural damage and safety hazards at multiple water crossing points.
At the Gammams Bridge near the Gammams Service Station, high water flows had swept side rails into the stream, and debris on the road surface indicated that water had overflowed the road, reaching an estimated height of 0.5 meters.
According to the team’s assessment, the bridge exhibited visible cracks, posing a significant safety risk. Additionally, at Monrovia Bridge on Golf Street, high flood marks, estimated at 1.6 meters, were evident from flood debris, and the gauge plate reading at 11:08 AM was recorded at 0.48 meters.
The team reported a slow flow situation along with standing or pooled water at the silted-up Monrovia station, indicating the need for maintenance.
The hydrology team stressed the necessity of installing gauge plates at critical stream crossings, particularly at Suiderhof and Hochland Park, to ensure accurate monitoring of water levels and enhance safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
Immediate maintenance at Monrovia Station was recommended to clear accumulated silt, ensuring that gauge plate readings remain accurate and reliable.
The team recommended repairing and reinforcing the Gammams Bridge to address the observed structural damage and prevent further deterioration, thereby ensuring the safety of all road users.
These recommendations come in the wake of a series of heavy downpours that have led to widespread disruption and displacement.
On 4 January 2025, the City of Windhoek (CoW) issued a warning to residents to prepare for flash floods amid increased rains.
The CoW indicated that due to the city’s geographical location, flash floods are a common natural disaster during this time.
High-risk areas identified by the CoW at the time included Arebbusch Street in Cimbebasia, Pelican Street in Hochland Park, and several streets in Eros, Katutura, and Nubuamis.
Residents were advised to clear trash and garden waste from drainage systems to prevent blockages and to gather emergency items like sandbags and plastic sheets.
Motorists were cautioned to avoid driving through flooded areas and to leave their vehicles if they stalled in water to reach safety.
The recent floods have had a profound impact on the community.
In early January, more than 1 000 residents were displaced in the Otjomuise area due to flash floods.
The CoW reported at the time that several houses were flooded in this area because of discarded tyres in riverbeds that exacerbated the situation by obstructing water flow.
A subsequent Preliminary assessment revealed that blocked culverts along Eneas Peter Nanyemba Street, which is under construction, also contributed to the flooding of nearby homes.
The CoW has been proactive in relocating families displaced by the recent floods.
According to the hydrological service report, timely action on the assessment team’s recommendations, coupled with continuous monitoring, to mitigate flooding risks, will safeguard infrastructure, and ensure public safety in Windhoek.
