The Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has suspended school lessons in several districts due to Tropical Storm Jude, which is predicted to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. Authorities are working to ensure the safety of communities, particularly in flood-prone areas. With memories of previous storms still fresh, residents are urged to take precautions against the impending storm.
The Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has taken precautionary measures by suspending school lessons in various districts from today until Thursday due to the approaching storm. This decision aims to safeguard students and staff amid the anticipated adverse weather conditions.
Dr. Rachel Chimboea Huey, Principal Secretary of the Ministry, has confirmed the closure based on a weather advisory from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services. She stated, “We are responding to the forecast of Tropical Storm Jude, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall and significant winds to various parts of the country.” Additionally, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation has warned about potential flash flooding, especially in southern districts where major rivers like the Shire River are at risk of overflowing.
As of this morning, Tropical Storm Jude has made landfall in Mozambique, raising concerns regarding heavy rain in Malawi. George Mhango, a correspondent in Malawi, noted, “At present, the storm’s impact is not as severe as predicted. Blantyre has experienced scattered showers, and the surrounding hills are obscured by clouds.” However, the Department of Climate Change has cautioned that the storm is likely to intensify, leading to worse weather as the day progresses.
Experts forecast that Tropical Storm Jude may bring over 100mm of rainfall within 24 hours, creating a significant risk of widespread flooding. Mhango emphasized, “The situation is particularly concerning in the southern districts of Chikwawa and Nsanje.” These areas are notably flood-prone, and rising water levels in the Shire River could threaten local communities.
The Department of Disaster Management (DODMA) is collaborating with organizations like the Red Cross to prepare for the impending storm. Authorities are prioritizing the provision of food, water, and shelter for those impacted. DODMA is also disseminating safety alerts and advice to the public, urging citizens to take necessary precautions.
As Malawi faces this challenge, the resilience of its citizens is being tested once again, especially since many are still recovering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Freddy in 2023. Mhango reported, “People are understandably nervous. Many remember the devastation from last year, and they are praying that Tropical Storm Jude does not bring a repeat of that tragedy.”
In summary, the Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has suspended school lessons due to the expected impact of Tropical Storm Jude, responding to weather advisories concerning severe weather and potential flooding. As authorities prepare for the storm, concerns are heightened in southern districts historically prone to floods. The public is urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety recommendations as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za
