By Petro Mkandawire
Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) has announced that from October 2025 to April 2026 Blantyre District will receive normal to above normal rainfall.
According to DCCMS, there is a high likelihood of normal to below normal rainfall in the months of November and February, and the 2025/2026 rainfall season is likely to be partly influenced by neutral El Nino southern Oscillation conditions in the tropical pacific ocean.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Tuesday, DCCMS Director Dr Lucy Mtilatila, said there was a probability of flash floods and strong damaging winds which may cause risk to property and damage infrastructure.
“The diversity of rainfall patterns will result in different natural disasters which will affect the agriculture sector and water resources among other sectors in the district. As such stakeholders are advised to plan accordingly, considering both potential benefits of adequate rainfall and challenges of dry spells,” said Mtilatila.
She, therefore, encouraged farmers to consult agriculture extension workers before they make decisions in order to optimize their farming practices, mitigate risks associated with the varied rainfall forecast and make informed choices on planting, crop selection and water management strategies.
Spokesperson for Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Chipiliro Khamula, said the Department has developed a National Mud Hazard Contingency Plan in readiness for any weather conditions.
He said they have put in place response interventions for any type of disaster which the country may experience.
“We have prepositioned research and rescue equipment, for instance, boats. We have some relief items which include maize, kitchen utensils, hygiene kits and of course tents in strategic areas for use during emergencies.
“If flash floods occur, we have standby arrangements for the deployment of a search and rescue team comprising the Malawi Defense Force, Malawi Police Service, Marine Department, Malawi Red Cross Society and other stakeholders if need arise,” said Khamula.
