Heavy rainfall from February 19 to 21, 2025, led to significant flooding across several districts in Botswana. Thousands were displaced, schools were temporarily closed, and local infrastructure was heavily affected. The Botswana Red Cross Society is assisting communities in need as part of a coordinated disaster response effort.
On February 19 to 21, 2025, Botswana experienced widespread flash flooding due to heavy rainfall affecting several districts, including Boteti, Gaborone, and Kgalagadi. The rainfall peaked at 235mm in Kokotsha and 160mm in Mogoditshane, resulting in flooded homes, submerged roads, and contaminated water. The floods disrupted transport networks significantly, leading to a temporary school closure from February 20 to 24 across numerous areas, with some schools reopening later due to severe conditions.
The National Society (NS) reported that many individuals, including vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women, were impacted. As of February 26, 2025, over 2,300 individuals had evacuated their homes, with 402 still in evacuation centres as of March 2. Major roads were closed, restricting access to affected regions. The continuous rainfall was predicted to exacerbate flooding conditions due to ongoing La Niña effects and regional weather patterns.
In response to the situation, the Government of Botswana has coordinated with the Botswana Red Cross Society (BRCS) to support affected communities. The escalating impact of late 2024 storms diminished response capabilities, necessitating additional resources. A national disaster taskforce was established and the DREF operation now targets 9,000 individuals across the districts of Ghanzi, Kgatleng, Tlokweng, and Gaborone for immediate assistance.
The Botswana floods from February 19 to 21, 2025, resulted from intense rainfall, adversely affecting several districts. Significant damage to homes and displacement of communities necessitated a collaborative response from government and humanitarian organizations like the BRCS. The ongoing adverse weather patterns further complicate recovery efforts, prompting a national disaster taskforce and targeted assistance for thousands of individuals impacted by the flooding.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
