Rising Incomáti River Levels Threaten Connectivity in Mozambique

The Incomáti River’s rising levels in Incoluane threaten connectivity between Maputo province and the rest of Mozambique, attributed to heavy upstream rains. Flooding in Magude district has affected homes and agriculture, prompting monitoring and damage assessment by authorities. ARA-Sul urges public caution and highlights the need for regular updates on hydrological conditions due to potential dangers in the area.

The connectivity between Maputo province and the rest of Mozambique faces significant risks due to the rising levels of the Incomáti River in the Incoluane area. Heavy rains upstream have caused the river’s waters to approach the National Road Number One (N1) platform, which serves as the crucial link between Maputo and Gaza provinces.

Óscar Sibia, director of the Incomáti Basin Management Division at the Southern Water Regional Administration (ARA-Sul), reported that this situation has led to the flooding of homes and agricultural fields in the Magude district. Authorities are diligently monitoring the scenario and assessing the extent of the damages associated with the flooding.

Data from the ARA-Sul Hydrological Bulletin reveal that various basins including Maputo, Madubula, Limpopo, Combomune, Chókwè, and Sicacate are experiencing unstable levels that remain above alert thresholds. Furthermore, an increase in the hydrometric level has been recorded in the Limpopo basin, while the Macarretane basin remains under an alert level.

The current hydrological conditions are expected to persist over the next 24 hours, characterized by rising water levels in the Maputo, Incomáti, and Limpopo basins, attributed to runoff from upstream and localized rainfall. In light of these developments, ARA-Sul urges residents to exercise caution near the rivers to avoid the dangers presented by swift waters.

Finally, it is imperative for the public to stay informed through regular updates on hydrological information provided by relevant authorities, ensuring safety and preparedness amid these challenging conditions.

The rising waters of the Incomáti River, fueled by heavy precipitation in upstream regions, pose a significant threat to vital transportation links in Mozambique. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation, especially in the Magude district, where flooding has already occurred. Safety precautions are essential as communities face potential hazards from increased river levels across multiple basins, necessitating vigilance and regular updates from hydrological sources.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com