Flooding in Gaborone exposes critical gaps in disaster preparedness :: Mmegi Online

This week, the city of Gaborone was severely impacted by unprecedented flooding after heavy rains pounded the area for over a sustained period of time. Urban streets, alleyways, and roads were transformed into rushing rivers, trapping motorists on feeder roads while vehicles were seen floating downstream.

Inundation spread through several neighborhoods, causing significant property damage and forcing the evacuation of residents from their waterlogged homes.

The crisis was compounded by a lack of clear direction for citizens. While police intermittently cautioned residents via local radio to avoid certain roads and remain indoors, no coordinated response was evident. Traffic signals failed to operate, and with no police officers stationed to manage intersections, long traffic jams ensued—trapping parents on their way to retrieve stranded children from schools.

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