Simiyu advises its residents living in valleys to relocate to safer areas before El Niño rains

BARIADI: THE Bariadi District authorities in Simiyu Region have urged residents living in valleys, mountainous areas and other high-risk locations to relocate to safer areas before the onset of heavy rains expected between September and October 2026.

The warning was issued today, August 28, 2026,  by Bariadi District Commissioner Simon Simalenga while addressing residents of Nkololo, Nkindwabiye and Ihusi wards during public meetings.

Simalenga said the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) had issued a warning about the possibility of heavy El Niño rains, urging residents to take precautionary measures early to prevent potential loss of lives and property.

“Based on the warning issued by TMA, we are asking residents living in high-risk areas to relocate early. These rains are expected to be heavy and could cause damage, so residents are urged to take precautionary measures,” Simalenga said.

The District Commissioner also urged residents to maintain adequate food supplies at home to help them cope with possible challenges arising from the heavy rains.

“Those who have food are urged to keep some of it and not sell all their supplies. Ensure that there is enough food for your families because of the expected rains,” he said.

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Meanwhile, residents in the affected wards have asked the Government to repair roads connecting their areas with other parts of the district, saying some roads are currently in poor condition and could become more dangerous or impassable once heavy rains begin.

A resident, Salamba Mashiku, said residents had taken note of the warning and were prepared to take precautionary measures, but appealed to the government to improve the road infrastructure before the rains begin.

“We have been warned about the heavy El Niño rains and told to take precautions. We are also asking the Government to repair our roads. Many of them are impassable, and given their current condition, the rains could make the situation very dangerous if they are not repaired,” Mashiku said.

The district authorities have urged residents to heed weather warnings and take precautionary measures early, particularly those living in areas vulnerable to flooding, landslides and other hazards associated with heavy rainfall.