By Staff Reporter
At least three people have died and more than 7,200 households have been affected following severe flooding triggered by persistent heavy rains across Malawi, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs has confirmed.
Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) said the floods were caused by intense rainfall experienced between December 22 and December 28, 2025, resulting in widespread destruction in 13 districts.
According to a situation report released by DODMA, a total of 7,205 households have been impacted, while 41 people sustained injuries during the flooding incidents. The affected districts are Blantyre, Chikwawa, Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Kasungu, Lilongwe, Mulanje, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje and Salima.
The floods have submerged homes, destroyed property and displaced thousands of families, particularly those living in low-lying areas and along major rivers. Some communities were cut off after roads and bridges were washed away, complicating rescue and relief efforts.
DODMA has since launched emergency response operations, including the distribution of relief items such as food and blankets to affected households. The department has also initiated evacuation exercises in high-risk areas, particularly in Nkhotakota and Nsanje districts, where water levels remain dangerously high.
Authorities have warned that continued rainfall could worsen the situation and have urged communities in flood-prone areas to remain alert and cooperate with evacuation teams when advised to move to safer locations.
DODMA says it is working with district councils and humanitarian partners to assess the full extent of the damage and mobilise additional assistance for affected families as the country continues to experience the rainy season.
