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Angola + 6 more

Southern Africa: Floods and Cyclones Situation Report No. 3

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HIGHLIGHTS/KEY PRIORITIES

1. In Madagascar, Cyclone Jade made landfall on 6 April 2009, causing limited infrastructure damage in a number of districts. An assessment is underway, the results of which will be discussed between Governments and partners on 9 April 2009.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

2. Regional: As the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ, the low pressure system that brings rain to southern Africa) continues its northward migration, only the north-west part of Angola is predicted to receive more than 50mm of rain per week over the next two weeks (see Maps 1 and 2). This precipitation should fall outside the catchment area of the Zambezi and Okavango basins, and not result in increased water flows into the rest of southern Africa.

3. However, as noted in the previous report, most of southern Africa has a probability of receiving higher than average rainfall between April and June 2009, which may still cause more localised and perhaps extensive flooding. Soil moisture is already very high, increasing chances of overland flow due to decreased infiltration.

4. Angola: The total number of affected is estimated at 220,000, although accurate figures for all affected areas are still outstanding. According to Civil Protection, rains and flooding are expected to continue up to mid-May 2009. The risk of outbreaks of water-borne diseases is increasing.

5. In the provinces of Lunda Sul, Moxico and Kuando Kubango, access is still an issue. Civil Protection has reinforced its staff on the ground, and extended its activities in Kuando Kubango and the southern part of Moxico province, which are considered vulnerable areas. In Kuando Kubango in particular, food security, shelter, safe water and sanitation are becoming serious concerns.

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