Natural disasters have claimed 39 lives this rainy season, primarily due to lightning strikes. Dodma reports a significant increase in deaths and injuries, affecting over 180,000 people. Assistance has been provided to 80% of impacted households, including essential supplies and temporary measures for shelter.
In recent months, natural disasters have tragically resulted in the loss of 39 lives during the rainy season, according to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma). The statement, signed by Commissioner for Disaster Charles Kalemba, highlights that the majority of these fatalities are due to lightning strikes, with 26 deaths attributed to such incidents and 13 resulting from falling walls.
Among the recent casualties are two infants, merely three months old, who succumbed to lightning strikes in Mzuzu City and Nkhata Bay District. Furthermore, the number of injuries has escalated to 483, primarily caused by lightning and the collapse of walls and roofs. This increase is significant compared to previous reports, reflecting a grim situation.
In an interview, Dodma Public Relations Officer Chipiliro Khamula noted that the current number of fatalities is more than double that of the same period last rainy season, where only 17 deaths and 67 injuries were reported among over 73,000 affected individuals.
Additionally, the impact of these natural disasters has extended to larger populations, with affected households rising from 35,661 in early February to 40,178, impacting approximately 180,801 people as of March 5, 2025. Notably, 809 households have been displaced due to severe weather like storms, hailstorms, and heavy rains.
In response to the worsening conditions, Dodma has successfully distributed assistance to 80 percent of the affected households, delivering essential items such as maize, beans, blankets, and temporary roofing materials.
The current rainy season has been particularly devastating, with natural disasters claiming 39 lives and resulting in significant injuries. The rise in fatalities, especially from lightning strikes, is alarming, as is the increase in the number of affected households. Dodma’s response efforts have reached a substantial portion of those impacted, yet the need for continued support remains critical amid the ongoing adverse weather conditions.
Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com
