Mixed rainfall outlook for the coming season
Risk of flooding and drought
The previous rainy season marked Namibia's 13th wettest in 44 years, a new report says.
Namibia faces a mixed weather outlook for the upcoming 2025/2026 rainy season, with forecasts pointing to normal to above-normal rainfall across much of the country, but drier-than-usual conditions expected in the south.The Namibia Meteorological Service (NMS) has urged communities, farmers and government agencies to prepare for both opportunities and risks associated with the predicted conditions.
According to its 2025/2026 rainfall season and advisory statement, the October to December period will likely bring wetter-than-usual conditions to the north-eastern regions, while the south and the Namib are expected to be drier.
From January to March 2026, however, much of the country is forecast to receive above-normal rainfall.
“The forecast calls for proactive water management, including monitoring of rivers, dams and boreholes, to mitigate both floods and droughts,” the service stated.
“Largely wet conditions are favoured in the second half of the season, but Namibia must be ready for both flooding and drought-related impacts,” it said.
Be prepared
Authorities are advised to update contingency plans and strengthen water harvesting techniques to ensure a reliable water supply, especially in areas facing anticipated scarcity, such as the southern regions and parts of Khomas.
The NMS said the forecast offers positive prospects for agriculture.
Adequate rainfall could boost crop yields, improve grazing conditions and replenish water resources.
Farmers are being encouraged to make the most of the early rains by preparing fields, using diverse seed varieties and implementing risk management strategies.
Livestock farmers may also consider restocking as better grazing conditions are expected. Still, experts caution that excessive rainfall could also trigger flooding, waterlogging, soil erosion and outbreaks of crop pests and livestock diseases.
The NMS confirmed that Namibia experienced its 13th wettest year last season in more than four decades, breaking a cycle of six consecutive drought years in regions such as Kunene.
Destruction
While the rains brought relief, they also caused destruction.
Flooding in January displaced over 9 000 people across eight regions, damaged infrastructure and led to costly repairs of key bridges near Rehoboth, Osona and Windhoek.
The NMS warned that similar risks remain. Flood-prone areas such as Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West and the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin in the north are at particular risk of widespread flooding. Urban centres with poor drainage could also experience severe waterlogging.
Heavy rains may also impact schools and transport networks. In regions such as Omusati, Ohangwena, and Oshikoto, flooding could make schools inaccessible and disrupt learning. Meanwhile, key highways, including the Trans-Caprivi route, may face closures or damage, potentially isolating communities.
Public health concerns also form part of the seasonal advisory. Standing water raises the risk of cholera, typhoid, and malaria outbreaks.