Malawi News

Meteorological Department warns on heatwave

Meteorological Department warns on heatwave

By Emmanuel Chilemba:

The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) has warned that some parts of the country will be experiencing prolonged “hot and uncomfortable weather conditions” over the next five days, starting Thursday.

According to a weather forecast statement from the department, temperatures in the Shire Valley districts of Nsanje and Chikwawa are expected to soar to 43°Celsius during the period under review.

“Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable people such as the elderly, young children and those with pre-existing health conditions,” the statement reads.

The development comes after Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in some parts of the country, claiming 13 lives and leaving 10,159 households destitute, according to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma).

According to Dodma, the total number of effected individuals is hovering around 45,162.

Its commissioner Charles Kalemba said in the statement that they have partnered humanitarian agencies in the provision of essential relief items to individuals that have been left destitute.

“Dodma is also leading in the development of a plan that will guide the implementation of short to mid-term interventions,” Kalemba said in the statement.