Lake Kariba, the world’s largest human-made reservoir, has run dangerously low, putting Zambia and Zimbabwe’s power supply at risk. Severe drought, worsened by El Niño, has dropped water levels to record lows and threatened a shutdown of the iconic Kariba Dam for the first time in 65 years.⚡
Highlights of how the drought is shaping daily lives in Zambia and Zimbabwe:
🔴 Power Cuts Up to 21 Hours a Day
Only one turbine is operational at Zambia’s power station – the Kariba North Bank – to conserve water. Local economies are already fragile, with Zambia still recovering from debt issues and Zimbabwe battling hyperinflation.
💧 The Dam’s Struggle
The dam, a marvel of engineering, is struggling, as the power stations feeding from it operate well below their optimum levels, leaving both countries with devastating daily power cuts.
🚜 Crops and Livelihoods Hit Hard
The drought has wiped out crops, pushing Southern Africa to the brink of hunger. Businesses, small and large, are struggling without stable electricity, and fishermen are catching a fraction of their usual haul. The Namibian and Zimbabwean governments have turned to wildlife to help feed their populations.
🌍 Climate Crisis in Action
As water levels continue to fall by 1cm per day, both countries are looking to alternative power sources like solar and coal, but rain is desperately needed. Will the upcoming rainy season save the day?
🔌 The Countdown Is On
Kariba’s situation is more critical than ever. Can early rains bring relief, or will this be a turning point for the region’s power security? 🌧️
Zambia #Zimbabwe #KaribaDam #PowerCrisis #Drought #ClimateChange #ElNino #EnergySecurity
