Likoma District Council tips people on disasters

Likoma district disaster desk officer Clifton Botha has advised people to abide by disaster precautionary measures to avoid losing lives and property during the rainy season.

Speaking yesterday in an interview following heavy rains which destroyed houses on Chizumulu Island, he said people should also follow early warning signs to avoid losing property and lives.

Said Botha: “The heavy rains have left 11 families homeless.

“People should adhere to the precautionary measures such as constructing strong structures which can withstand strong winds and heavy rains.”

He said travellers to Likoma and Chizumulu islands should monitor weather forecasts and make proper travel arrangements.

Botha also advised fishers to avoid going fishing when it is raining.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change on Thursday issued a warning on the likelihood of flash floods which would affect Likoma.

The warning said heavy rains may likely be accompanied by lightning and strong winds, thereby posing a threat of widespread flash flooding in some districts.

The statement also advised the public in flood-prone areas to plan travel arrangements properly, avoid crossing or driving through fast flowing water, avoid resting and parking vehicles under trees among others