BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued an urgent warning as heavy, continuous rainfall sweeps across Eswatini, pushing all major dams above full capacity.
The advisory, released on January 13, 2026, alerts communities nationwide to serious flooding risks and dangers to life, property, and infrastructure. Saturated soils, swollen rivers, and ongoing inflows from local rains and upstream dam releases from South Africa have caused every national dam to overflow.
Maguga Dam on the Komati River remains above 100%. Mnjoli Dam on the Black Mbuluzi River has surged to 107%. Lubovane Dam on the Great Usuthu River stands at 103.49%. Luphohlo and Hawane dams are at 101%. Officials warn that river levels will continue rising if rainfall persists.
Low-lying areas, floodplains, and communities downstream of dams are at the highest risk. Roads, bridges, and culverts are under strain. Several roads have already been washed out or weakened. Flooded roads are deadly. Water levels can rise suddenly, and currents are stronger than they appear. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to avoid crossing rivers or water-covered roads.
The human toll is mounting. Eleven people have drowned between December 2025 and January 2026. Most deaths occurred while attempting to cross flooded rivers and roads. Authorities stress these deaths could have been prevented.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service warns of increased crocodile attacks. Rising waters displace the reptiles from their usual habitats. On January 10, a 30-year-old man from Lubulini was mauled while fishing at the Lubulini–Nsoko canal and is now hospitalized.
Officials urge residents to stay indoors during storms, secure homes and roofs, clear drains, keep children away from water bodies, and check on the elderly and vulnerable. Non-essential travel should be postponed. Staying alert and following official warnings can save lives.
