Zanzibar authorities are stepping up preparations for the El Niño affected October to December rainy season, urging people in high-risk areas to take action before heavy rains arrive.

The Tanzania Meteorological Authority says the short rainy season is expected to bring normal to above normal rainfall in several parts of the country, with rains beginning from late September and potentially extending into January.

Residents in flood prone areas of Zanzibar, particularly in the Urban West Region, are being urged to relocate voluntarily to safer areas before the rains intensify.

The Zanzibar Disaster Management Commission says it has identified 75 vulnerable administrative areas and activated a three-level emergency response plan.

In the historic Stone Town, authorities say they have identified 105 buildings in poor condition, with 27 requiring urgent safety measures.

This comes as the Tanzania Meteorological Authority says heavier rainfall is expected particularly in November, increasing the risk of flooding and damage to infrastructure.

As a result, Zanzibar’s President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi has urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas and has ordered authorities to clear drainage systems.

Tourism is a key pillar of Zanzibar’s economy, and prolonged heavy rains could disrupt beach activities, boat excursions and other outdoor experiences that attract visitors.

Authorities are therefore urging hotels, tour operators and other businesses to prepare for possible weather-related disruptions.

Tanzania’s previous El Niño-related floods and landslides killed at least 155 people and affected more than 200 000 others between late 2023 and 2024.

–SABC–