Tanzania's environment body issues warning on heavy rains, landslides
What you need to know:
- Authorities, particularly in Dar es Salaam, have been urged to ensure efficient waste management to prevent clogged drainage systems that exacerbate flooding.
Dar es Salaam. The National Environmental Management Council (NEMC) has issued a strong warning about the risks associated with heavy rainfall and landslides in Tanzania, urging the public to prepare for possible widespread destruction.
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, NEMC’s Director General, Dr Immaculate Semesi, discussed a recent alert from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) issued on January 23. This alert forecasted heavy rains and potential flooding.
The rains are expected to affect several regions, including Shinyanga, Simiyu, Mara, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara. In contrast, areas such as Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Pwani, Morogoro, Kigoma, Kagera, Geita, Mwanza, and parts of Shinyanga may experience moderate to below-average rainfall.
These conditions raise concerns about possible flash floods, landslides, and disease outbreaks, particularly in flood-prone areas such as Rufiji, Morogoro, Malinyi, Ulanga, and Kilombero.
Dr Semesi pointed out that environmental mismanagement, especially poor waste disposal in urban drainage systems, is worsening flood risks. She called for improved accountability in waste management and emphasized the importance of maintaining drainage infrastructure to help mitigate flooding.
“We urge Local Government Authorities, especially in Dar es Salaam, to address the improper disposal of solid waste in water systems to ensure that water channels remain clean and clear,” she said.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to maintain a safe environment to prevent flooding and disease outbreaks.”
The warning also noted the devastating impact of past natural disasters, including deadly landslides in Katesh (Manyara), Kawetere (Mbeya), and Mamba Miamba (Kilimanjaro), as well as catastrophic flooding in Rufiji, Morogoro, and Kilombero, which have resulted in loss of life and significant infrastructure damage.
TMA’s forecast predicts above-average rainfall in several regions, with some areas likely to experience even heavier downpours. Dr Semesi cautioned that these conditions could lead to further flooding, landslides, and substantial damage to homes, farms, and public infrastructure.
“Residents should stay informed about weather updates from TMA and take precautions, particularly in coastal areas, along lake shores, riverbanks, and mountainous regions,” she advised.
“Transport operators should exercise caution, as roads may be affected by floods.”
NEMC also urged adherence to the Environmental Management Act of 2004, which prohibits construction in high-risk areas like riverbanks, valleys, coastal zones, and wetlands.
Dr Semesi emphasised the necessity of proper waste disposal to prevent stormwater drainage systems from becoming blocked.
TMA’s Acting director general, Dr Ladislaus Chang’a, provided additional details on the masika rains, expected to begin in early March 2025. He noted that excessive moisture and flooding could harm crop growth, while rising water levels in rivers and reservoirs might cause further flooding in vulnerable areas.
He also warned of potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases due to contaminated water sources. To mitigate these risks, Dr Chang’a urged all sectors to plan their activities based on TMA’s weather updates and advised farmers to prepare fields for excessive moisture by employing appropriate techniques to manage waterlogging, prevent soil erosion, and conserve water.
NEMC and TMA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary to ensure public safety.
