Malawi Suspends School Lessons Amid Tropical Storm Jude Alert

The Malawi Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has suspended classes due to the approaching Tropical Storm Jude, which is expected to cause heavy rainfall and flooding. The Department of Disaster Management and other agencies are preparing for the storm, ensuring resources are in place for affected communities. Public safety alerts have been issued as many residents remain on edge from previous storms.

A tropical storm has been developing and is moving towards Malawi, prompting the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to suspend classes in several districts from today until Thursday. The decision is a preventative measure to ensure the safety of students and staff amid dangerous weather forecasts.

Dr. Rachel Chimboea Huey, the Ministry’s Principal Secretary, confirmed this suspension, which was prompted by advisories from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services. She stated, “We are responding to the forecast of Tropical Storm Jude, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall and significant winds to various parts of the country.” Furthermore, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation alerted that flash flooding could occur, particularly in southern districts where rivers like the Shire are at risk.

The storm has made landfall in Mozambique, leading to expectations of heavy rains in Malawi. George Mhango, a correspondent in Malawi, described the current situation: “At present, the storm’s impact is not as severe as predicted. Blantyre has experienced scattered showers, and the surrounding hills are obscured by clouds.” However, he cautioned that intensifying storm conditions are anticipated as the day continues.

Meteorological experts warn that Tropical Storm Jude may yield over 100mm of rainfall in certain areas within a 24-hour timeframe, raising alarms about potential flooding. “The situation is particularly concerning in the southern districts of Chikwawa and Nsanje,” Mhango noted, emphasizing the risk posed by the swelling Shire River in these flood-prone communities.

The Department of Disaster Management (DODMA) is coordinating efforts with agencies like the Red Cross to prepare for the storm. Authorities are focused on ensuring adequate provisions of food, water, and shelter for those impacted, while distributing safety alerts and urging the public to take necessary precautions.

As Malawi braces for another potential disaster, its resilience is once again being put to the test. Many citizens are still healing from the destruction caused by Cyclone Freddy earlier this year, prompting concern in the community. “People are understandably nervous,” Mhango concluded, reflecting on the apprehension stemming from past calamities and the hope that Tropical Storm Jude does not replicate last year’s devastation.

In summary, the intensifying Tropical Storm Jude has prompted precautionary school closures in Malawi due to anticipated heavy rainfall and strong winds. The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Department of Disaster Management are taking proactive measures to ensure safety amid possible flooding. The community remains on high alert, given its recent experiences with devastating storms, reminding all of the resilience required to withstand such challenges.

Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za