Mbabane – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has alerted the public that recent heavy rainfall and forecasts of further showers have significantly affected national dams and rivers, increasing the risk of flooding across the country. Authorities warned that controlled releases from dams may occur as water levels rise, while rivers continue flowing well above normal.
The ministry’s report on 17 November 2025 shows that most large dams are above 85% capacity. Mnjoli Dam on the Black Mbuluzi River stands at 91.25% of its 177 million cubic meter capacity, Lubovane on the Great Usuthu River is at 101.13% of 155 million cubic meters, and Maguga on the Komati River is at 87.72% of 332 million cubic meters. Smaller dams such as Hawane (58% of 2.75 million cubic meters) and Luphohlo (47.8% of 23.6 million cubic meters) are also rising with continued rainfall.
The ministry highlighted areas at highest risk of flooding. The Mkhondvo River, stretching from Mahamba and Nkwene to the Usuthu confluence at Sidvokodvo, Siphofaneni, and Big Bend, is vulnerable. The Komati River from Maguga Dam through Enjakeni to the Mananga border with South Africa, the Mbuluzi River from Hawane through Ejubukweni to Mnjoli Dam and Mlawula, and the Lomati River from Phophonyane to Matsamo are also at high risk. Flow data for the Ngwavuma River will be shared when available.
Residents are urged to avoid riverbanks, dams, and low-lying areas prone to flooding. Crossing rivers during or after rainfall is strongly discouraged, as even shallow currents can sweep people away. Muddy or high waters above knee level are particularly dangerous due to uneven riverbeds, slippery rocks, and potential crocodile encounters.
The ministry advised the public to monitor weather updates closely, avoid low-lying bridges, and use river and dam levels to guide water use during the rainy season. Households are encouraged to harvest rainwater. Authorities warned that further rainfall could trigger dam spillovers, as currently occurring at Lubovane, and called on all citizens to exercise vigilance and take personal safety measures seriously.
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