The hydrological situation in the South of the country remains critical

Despite the absence of rain in the last 24 hours, the main rivers in southern Mozambique remain at high levels, above the alert level, due to runoff from upstream regions. The region's reservoirs are registering significant volumes, while forecasts indicate continued restrictions on the movement of people and goods.

In the last 24 hours, according to the rainfall observation network in the southern region of the country, no precipitation was recorded. However, the hydrological situation remains worrying.

Regarding river basins, the Maputo River (in Madubula), the Incomáti River (in Magude and Manhiça), and the Limpopo River (in Combomune, Sicacate, Chókwè, and Xai-Xai) continue to register fluctuating levels with a downward trend, although they remain above the alert level. This scenario is due to the increased volume of runoff from upstream regions. On the other hand, the remaining basins show fluctuations with a general downward trend, fortunately remaining below the alert level.

With regard to the region's reservoirs, the data indicate considerable volumes.

- Corumana reservoir has a volume of 1128.93 Mm³ (83.89% of capacity); 

- Massingir Dam registers 1787.26 Mm³ (63.01%); 

- The Pequenos Libombos Dam (BPL) has a capacity of 302.04 Mm³ (78.54%). 

It is worth noting that the inflow and outflow rates remain active, reflecting the ongoing management of water resources.

Given the weather forecast and the current hydrological situation, changes are expected in the next 48 hours. A reduction in runoff volume is anticipated in the main river basins; however, levels are expected to remain above the alert level – particularly in the Maputo, Umbelúzi, Incomati, Limpopo, and Save river basins. It is important to note that negative impacts are already being felt on some main and secondary roads, which is hindering or even interrupting the movement of people and goods.

Given this situation, the Southern Regional Water Administration (ARA-Sul, IP) urges the general public to take precautionary measures, avoiding approaching the Maputo, Incomáti, and Limpopo rivers due to the risk of being swept away by the force of the water. Furthermore, it recommends continuous monitoring of hydrological information released by the competent authorities.