HEAVY RAINS WARNING 07-09 JANUARY 2026

CATEGORY 10

The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services is issuing a warning of heavy rainfall expected to affect lakeshore areas and several parts across northern and central Malawi. The adverse weather, characterized by intense downpours accompanied by strong winds and frequent lightning is particularly impacting Nkhotakota, Salima and parts of Mzimba, Kasungu, Nkhata Bay, Dowa, Mchinji ndi Ntchisi both under category 10 alerts. Mzimba, Mzuzu, Likoma, Machinga, Mangochi and parts of Zomba ndi Balaka which are under category 6 while the remaining districts are under category 2 warnings. These risky conditions are due to the low-pressure system which is in the Mozambique channel and currently enhancing Congo air mass but is expected to pass through Malawi on Wednesday.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures such as • Avoid low-lying zones prone to flooding • Avoid crossing flooded or fast flowing waters. • Avoid seeking shelter under trees and weak infrastructure • Avoid moving in the open when there is thunderstorm in the vicinity