Despite a gradual decline in dam water levels across Botswana, authorities have urged the public to remain cautious as flooding remains a significant concern in several areas.
The Water Utilities Corporation (WUC), in collaboration with the National Flood Disaster Response Technical Committee, warned that while dam levels are receding, the risk of flooding persists, particularly in regions downstream of major water bodies.
The Gaborone Dam, which has been spilling into the Notwane River, currently stands at 102.72 percent, down from a peak of 105.19 percent recorded on February 21.
“While this decline has provided some relief to areas downstream of the dam, which have experienced flooding since Thursday, 20 February 2025, the situation remains critical,” WUC said in a statement on Sunday.
Further compounding the issue is the Molatedi Dam in neighbouring South Africa, which has been spilling since last Thursday, reaching a peak of 134 percent.
This has led to significant inflows into the Madikwe River, a tributary of the Limpopo River, exacerbating the flooding situation in Botswana.
Authorities highlighted that the Notwane River, which converges with the Limpopo River near Ramotlabaki Village, is experiencing backwater effects from the Limpopo, worsening flood conditions in downstream communities.
They urged residents to exercise extreme caution, particularly near dam areas, riverbanks and flood-prone zones.
The public has also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through affected areas to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
Botswana has been grappling with severe flooding since last week, following heavy rainfall that caused widespread water overflow in key dams and rivers.
Several communities have been affected, with authorities working around the clock to mitigate the impact and assist those in need.
JN/APA