This rainy season has witnessed 39 fatalities due to natural disasters, predominantly caused by lightning and collapsing structures. Dodma reports significant increases in both deaths and affected households compared to the previous year, with extensive relief efforts underway.
Natural disasters have resulted in the tragic loss of 39 lives this rainy season, as reported by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma). Commissioner for Disaster Charles Kalemba highlighted that most fatalities stem from lightning strikes, while others resulted from collapsing walls of houses. Specifically, of the 39 recorded deaths, 26 were attributed to lightning and 13 to wall damage.
Among the recent casualties are two three-month-old infants who were struck by lightning in Mzuzu City and Nkhata Bay District. Furthermore, the total number of injuries has risen to 483, reflecting the impact of lightning and structural failures. In a separate interview, Dodma Public Relations Officer Chipiliro Khamula indicated that the current death toll is significantly higher than during the same period last year when only 17 deaths had been reported.
The ongoing rainy season has severely affected numerous households, with the Department stating that over double the number have experienced natural disasters compared to last year. As of 5 March 2025, approximately 40,178 households, equating to around 180,801 individuals, have been impacted by severe weather conditions including hailstorms and heavy rains. Consequently, 809 households have been displaced due to these disasters.
In response, the department has successfully delivered aid to 80 percent of the affected households, providing essential food and non-food items such as maize, beans, blankets, pails, and plastic sheets for temporary roofing solutions.
In conclusion, the recent rainy season has proven devastating, with 39 lives lost primarily due to lightning strikes and structural collapses. The number of affected households has greatly increased, necessitating urgent response efforts. The measures undertaken by Dodma to reach a majority of affected households showcase the ongoing commitment to providing necessary support during this catastrophic period.
Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com
