Staff Reporter
WHILE the Kunene River’s flow rate has slightly decreased over the weekend, it remains stronger than it was a week ago.
According to the Hydrological Services of Namibia, the Kunene River recorded a flow rate of 1,197.80 cubic metres per second (m³/s) on Tuesday morning, 21 April 2026. This is an increase compared to the 1,058.80 m³/s recorded last week Tuesday, 14 April 2026.
However, the river’s current flow rate is lower than the 1,386.10 m³/s recorded on Monday, 20 April 2026. Despite this reduction, residents near the river are advised to stay vigilant and avoid crossing flooded areas.
Recent videos of the Kunene River. Videos: Facebook (Marlene Hurter; Trans Africa Self Drive Adventures and Tours).
In the north-eastern parts of the country, the Kavango and Zambezi rivers have also seen a slight decline in water levels over the past week. The Kavango River at Rundu decreased from 7.09m last Tuesday to 6.90m this Tuesday. This is also lower than the 7.55m recorded on the same date last year (21 April 2025).
Similarly, the Zambezi River at Katima Mulilo also recorded a decrease, from 6.33m last Tuesday to 6.18m this Tuesday. Nonetheless, this is still higher than the 5.07m recorded on the same date last year (21 April 2025), indicating sustained high flow conditions.
“The eastern Zambezi floodplains continue to fill up, with notable backflow extending towards Ngoma Bridge and Lake Liambezi. Meanwhile, the Chobe River at Ngoma Gate recorded a water level of 4.03m this morning (21 April 2026). In light of these conditions, a flood alert is advised for the eastern Zambezi floodplains. Communities in these areas are strongly urged to remain on high alert and to activate flood preparedness and response measures,” added the Hydrological Services of Namibia.
