The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) says Tropical storm CHENESO has no threat to Malawi unless if it stays longer on the Mozambique Channel.

Addressing the press on Friday, Director of the Department Lucy Mtilatila spoke on the likelihood of heavy rains in Malawi if the cyclone stays longer on the Channel which might increase chances of flooding especially in southern Malawi.

Last year, the Meteorological Department released the 2022/23 rainfall seasonal forecast which projected that most areas will experience normal to above normal rainfall.

It indicated this will trigger the occurrence of flash floods in most disaster-prone areas and with effects of climate change taking centre stage.

It further stated the magnitude and frequency of disasters that Malawi has been experiencing especially during the rainy season, are so alarming and catastrophic.

In view of this, the department of Disaster Management affairs (DODMA), in collaboration with councils and various humanitarian stakeholders; among other preparedness interventions, developed the national multi-hazard contingency plan in readiness for the season.

This will guide the response interventions for any type of disaster Malawi may experience, including the deadly cyclones.

The department also equipped councils with skills in developing people-centred contingency plans.

Speaking during government faces the press, Mtilatila assured of regular weather updates for farmers and to help the public in planning.

The MET boss bemoaned lack of planning which she noted is affecting productivity and urges people to take the weather forecasts seriously.