Heavy rains have caused significant disruptions, with several bridges severely damaged and key roads closed in Windhoek.
One of the most-affected areas is the B1 road, 30 kilometres south of Windhoek, where continuous rainfall caused severe damage to a bridge, leading to its closure on Thursday. The B1 is a vital route for commuters from Rehoboth, as well as links to South Africa, and the closure has impacted travel for residents from other towns further south, with reports of traffic jams.
In response, the Roads Authority (RA) immediately hired a contractor to construct a temporary bypass.
RA spokesperson Hileni Fillemon said: “Work on the bypass is set to begin today and should be completed by tomorrow (Friday). Motorists are advised to use alternative routes and remain cautious in the affected areas.”
The ongoing rains have also caused flooding across Windhoek. From 1 January to 18 March, the City of Windhoek responded to 21 flood-related incidents, particularly in the Otjomuise and 8ste Laan informal settlements, where over 280 households were impacted. On 18 March, 181 informal dwellings were relocated to Farm 508, Goreangab, to ensure the safety of residents.
In addition to damage to the bridge on the B1, water forced the closure of another road at Abraham Mashego Street in the Grysblock area due to significant damage. The Namibia Meteorological Services, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister, issued a weather warning for 15–21 March, predicting heavy thunderstorms and localised flash floods in several regions, including Khomas.
Flash floods have already caused the deaths of four people this year: one in February and three in March, including a car wash-away and death of a pedestrian.
Authorities have urged residents in low-lying areas or near riverbeds to exercise caution. The City advised people to avoid crossing seasonal riverbeds during heavy rainfall, particularly in high-risk areas like Khomasdal, Katutura and Olympia.