Flash floods in parts of Outapi

Relentless rain and floods have left some parts of the Omusati region under water.

Heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds, have battered Outapi since last Wednesday night.

The persistent downpours are said to have caused floodplains to overflow, leading to some destruction.

Roads were blocked by debris, schools were impacted, and critical infrastructure has been compromised.

Outapi Town Council spokesperson Joolokeni Haidula says the water has now subsided and no area is flooded any more.

“I can confirm that it’s true, some parts were under water as a result of the heavy downpours received last night.

“However, at the moment the water has subsided and no area is under water. Even the informal settlements that were heavily flooded, the water has flown into the Oshanas,” she says.

Haidula says no casualties or massive destruction was reported.

She says the town council has placed mechanisms in place should any future flooding occur.

“We have not received any information on possible flooding yet but should it occur, we as the town council are prepared. We have constructed stormwater channels in most areas around town especially at the shopping malls,” she says.

Haidula says residents should not panic as the town is not expecting any flooding soon.

“Obviously, when it rains, water will be all over the place standing, but that doesn’t mean that it is flooded.

“The town council is well prepared to assist the residents should any possible flood occur,” she says.

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