During February 2006, the very high floods in the central area of Namibia, especially in the Kuiseb, Oanob, Tsauchab and upper Fish River catchments, caused inundations and extensive damage in many places. To determine the magnitude and frequency of these floods for future planning, the Hydrology Division in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry is launching an investigation into the rainfall and local runoff events that contributed to these floods. The main area of investigation is the area to the west of a line Okahandja – Windhoek – Rehoboth – Kalkrand – Mariental, but other places in Namibia may also be of relevance.

The assistance of the public staying in this area to the west of the line from Okahandja to Mariental, and who have taken rainfall measurements or have observed exceptional flooding, is therefore requested. The following information will be very useful: Measured rainfalls since the beginning of January, especially during the last week of February, with details on date, time of commencement and duration (i.e. 110 mm on 24 February between 17:30 and 20:15); systematic records of rainfalls showing how exceptional recent events were or giving a firm information since how long they have occurred with this magnitude; information on floods and wash-aways also with an indication for what period they have been the largest known of.

The following officials can be contacted: Ms Ottilie Angula at 061-208-7195, fax: 061-208-7227 or AngulaO@mawrd.gov.na; Mr Titus Endjala at 061-208-7261, fax 061-208-7227 or EndjalaT@mawrd.gov.na; Mr Guido Van Langenhove at 061-208-7257 or 0811-244 180, fax 061-208-7227 or gvl@mawrd.gov.na or guidovanlangenhove@yahoo.fr