Zambia among countries warned of cyclone ‘Freddy’

HEAVY RAINS in some parts of the country may be looming after latest reports indicating that Zambia is among the seven countries warned to stay alert of a tropical cyclone also known as ‘Freddy’.

A tropical cyclone has hit some parts of Madagascar leaving one person dead on Tuesday as heavy rains and strong winds blow off roofs from some houses.

In an advisory note, the United Nations has indicated that it is closely monitoring the situation which poses a high risk of deadly storms and flooding in most SADC countries.

UN designate official Beatrice Mutali has said latest SADC – Climate Service Centre reports indicate that cyclone Freddy extend to different parts of the region.

“Latest reports from the SADC-Climate Services Centre indicate that, in the coming days, intense Tropical Cyclone (Freddy) is expected to make landfall in different parts of the Southern African Region-including Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana, Eswatini, and South Africa.

“It will involve heavy rainfall with flash floods. The situation may occasion a high risk of dangerous storm surge, flooding, and strong/damaging wind especially in locations on the storm’s path in Zambia and indications are that the Southern Province will be most affected and some parts of Central and Eastern Provinces,” she said.

She said while the Zambia Meteorological Department and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) are coordinating with counterparts in other neighbouring countries to monitor the situation, “it has become necessary to alert all UN personnel accordingly for the needed caution and vigilance, as well as minimization of movements.

“All Heads of Agencies are, also, advised to be on the alert for possible activation of their respective BCPs if the need arises. Please be guided accordingly,” she said

Source: (Mwebantu, Wednesday, 22nd Februray, 2023)