Persistent heavy rains sweeping across Eswatini have begun to disrupt daily life, with authorities warning of rising flood risks, damaged infrastructure, and growing threats to public safety in several parts of the country.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service has issued a public notice urging emaSwati to avoid crossing flooded rivers, warning that fast-moving water poses a serious danger following days of continuous rainfall. Police emphasized that even familiar river crossings have become unpredictable under current conditions.
The impact of the heavy rains has already been felt in parts of the country. In Maphalaleni, torrential downpours caused rivers to overflow, blocking roads and cutting off access to sections of the area. Crops were damaged, houses affected, and several homesteads reportedly lost entire fields of vegetables after floodwaters swept through farmlands. National Disaster Management Agency officials are on the ground assessing the extent of the damage and coordinating response efforts.
Kuhlala Primary School was among the facilities left inaccessible after floodwaters rendered surrounding roads impassable, raising concerns about the continued disruption of essential services if the rains persist.
Weather authorities have cautioned that the situation could worsen. In an evening update, the Eswatini Meteorological Service warned that recent heavy rains have significantly increased the risk of localized flooding across many parts of the country. Cloudy, cold conditions and fog in some areas are expected to further complicate travel and visibility.
Earlier this week, the Eswatini Electricity Company confirmed that sustained rainfall had led to the overflow of Luphohlo Dam, causing a sharp rise in water levels along downstream rivers, including the Lushushwana River, and reinforcing concerns about flooding in low-lying communities.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant, heed official warnings, and prioritize safety as the rainy conditions persist. Residents are advised to avoid flooded areas, limit travel where possible, and follow guidance from local leaders and emergency services as assessments and monitoring continue nationwide.
