Natural Disasters Lead to 39 Fatalities Amid Rainy Season

The current rainy season has led to 39 deaths from natural disasters, primarily due to lightning, with a rise in injuries and affected households. Dodma reports over 40,000 households impacted and has reached 80% of them with aid. This season shows a significant increase in fatalities compared to the last.

Natural disasters during the current rainy season have resulted in 39 fatalities, as reported by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma) through Commissioner for Disaster Charles Kalemba. The primary cause of these deaths has been attributed to lightning strikes, with 26 individuals losing their lives in this manner, while 13 fatalities were linked to collapsing structures.

Among the most tragic incidents, two infants, just three months old, were struck by lightning in Mzuzu City and Nkhata Bay District. The number of injuries has now risen to 483, primarily due to similar causes of lightning and damaged buildings. Dodma Public Relations Officer Chipiliro Khamula remarked that the current fatalities are more than double those recorded at this time during the last rainy season.

By this date last rainy season, there had been 17 deaths and 67 injuries among 73,345 individuals affected by natural disasters. The statement indicated a significant increase in the number of households impacted by various calamities, such as floods and storms, rising from 35,661 to 40,178, affecting approximately 180,801 people since March 5, 2025. Among these, 809 households have been displaced.

In response to these severe weather conditions, Dodma has been able to assist 80 percent of the affected households, providing essential supplies including maize, beans, blankets, and materials for temporary roofing such as plastic sheets. The increase in both fatalities and affected households demonstrates the urgent need for continued support and preparedness for natural disasters.

The article highlights the devastating impact of natural disasters during the current rainy season, with 39 lives lost, predominantly due to lightning. The number of individuals affected has also surged, necessitating urgent humanitarian assistance. The efforts made by Dodma reflect a commitment to alleviate the suffering of a significant number of households amid these challenges.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com