NamPower has issued a warning to the public and tourists to avoid the Kunene River, stressing that no one should attempt to swim in it due to the high risk of drowning.  

Last Monday, NamPower opened a floodgate, releasing  1.1 million litres of water per second (1,100 cubic meters per second). A second floodgate at the Ruacana diversion weir will also be opened soon to ease pressure on the dam.  

Leonard Shemuvalula, NamPower’s Ruacana Station Manager, advised those camping near the river to  avoid braaing close to the water  and urged downstream residents to stay clear of riverbanks. He emphasised the need for precautionary measures to ensure safety.