Namibia records highest rainfall in 50 years due to La Niña

By: Ellen Shihepo

Namibia has experienced its highest recorded rainfall in five decades, with over 300mm accumulated. Experts attribute the significant downpour to the La Niña weather phenomenon.

Chief Forecaster at the Meteorological Services, Odillo Kgobetsi, told News on One the country has seen widespread thunderstorms, leading to increased moisture saturation and higher runoff levels. This has resulted in increased flash floods and infrastructure damage.

“The intensity of the rain has kept the ground saturated, causing more flash floods than usual,” Kgobetsi said adding that while rainfall varied across regions, overall levels remained well above average.

The sporadic nature of the downpours, fluctuating in intensity between suburbs, contributed to a rise in dam levels and the revival of long-dry rivers.

Kgobetsi noted that the La Niña effect has increases the likelihood of thunderstorms and easterly waves from the Congo. He also highlighted the benefits of prolonged rainfall, including improved groundwater levels.

Kgobetsi has cautioned that more thunderstorms and tropical showers are expected throughout April.