TMA cautions Lake Nyasa communities of thunderstorms, severe winds
What you need to know:
- TMA has advised residents to avoid seeking shelter in open areas or under tall trees during rainstorms to prevent the danger of being struck by lightning.
Mbeya. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has warned fishermen and residents living along the shores of Lake Nyasa, in Kyela District, Mbeya Region, about the possibility of thunderstorms and strong winds that could pose a huge risk.
TMA has advised residents to avoid seeking shelter in open areas or under tall trees during rainstorms to prevent the danger of being struck by lightning.
Speaking to Mwananchi Digital on Friday, April 25, 2025, the TMA Regional Manager for the Southern Highlands, Mr Elius Lipiki, stated that the current rainy season is expected to end in the last week of April, with an anticipated cessation by early May 2025.
“In the Lake Nyasa region, there will be periods of thunderstorms and strong winds. We urge fishermen and residents in surrounding villages to exercise extreme caution,” said Mr Lipiki.
He stressed that TMA urges the public, particularly fishermen, to take appropriate precautions before going out to the lake.
“I strongly advise fishermen to be mindful of thunderstorms, as they are dangerous for fishing activities due to the strong winds and high waves they bring,” he added.
Mr Lipiki also urged the public to stay updated with hourly weather reports, warning against relying on outdated methods to navigate waves and winds while at the lake.
The regional manager noted that people living near valleys should also take precautions, as watercourses could lead to harm, especially within 60 metres inland.
“In some areas, the soil has absorbed most of the water, but valleys and watercourses remain particularly hazardous,” he said.
A fisherman from the shores of Lake Nyasa in the Matema area, Mr Festo Wille, described the season as difficult due to persistent rainfall, which has disrupted fishing activities.
“This year has been especially tough for us. Sardines have disappeared, and even large fish are hard to find. “To catch anything, you have to venture deep into the lake,” Mr Wille explained.
“In light of these challenges, fishermen call for government support through loans to adopt modern fishing methods to alleviate the tough conditions,” he added.
A trader selling a famous species of fish from Lake Nyasa, Ms Neema Aloyce, said the scarcity of fish has resulted in price hikes, with fish being sold for between Sh15,000 and Sh30,000, depending on their size.
