NamPower Issues Flood Warning as Second Flap Gate Opens at Ruacana. NamPower has issued an urgent flood warning to residents and communities along the Kunene River, as heavy rainfall in southern Angola has led to increased water flow towards Ruacana.
To manage the rising water levels, NamPower will open the second flap gate of the diversion weir at the Ruacana Power Station on Monday, 31 March 2025. This move will increase the river flow from 1,100 cubic meters per second to over 1,600 cubic meters per second (equivalent to 1.6 million liters per second). Currently, only one flap gate is open.
Authorities warn that this high river flow—similar to what was last experienced in 2011—could cause significant flooding downstream of the Ruacana Power Station. NamPower has advised residents in the affected areas to take immediate precautions, including:
- Evacuating low-lying areas
- Moving livestock and equipment to higher ground
- Staying away from riverbanks, as water levels are expected to rise further
Lodges and campsites in the region have also been urged to prepare for potential flooding and ensure visitor safety.Residents and visitors are strongly advised to avoid all activities near the water and stay away from the river’s edges during this period.
