Mozambique is experiencing significant flooding following weeks of heavy rains, which have rapidly escalated into a humanitarian concern across large parts of the country. The United Nations and humanitarian agencies report that flooding is affecting water systems, access to food, infrastructure, and health services, especially in some central and north-central regions of the country. While the situation remains challenging in many areas and ongoing weather risks persist, the Ponta Malongane area in southern Mozambique – including Halo Gaia accommodation and facilities – remains largely accessible, especially for travellers entering from South Africa via the Kosi Bay border or the Komatipoort/Ressano Garcia/Maputo corridor routes.
What’s Happening in Mozambique This Week
Here’s a snapshot of the evolving situation:
- Flooding has inundated large parts of southern and central Mozambique, with thousands of homes affected and tens of thousands of people displaced.
- UNICEF and humanitarian partners warn that unsafe water access, disease outbreaks, and worsening malnutrition are serious risks, particularly for children and vulnerable communities.
- Emergency responses are underway, including shelter, water access, health services & distribution of essential supplies, but conditions remain difficult in the most affected zones.
Travel to Ponta Malongane – What You Should Know
While flooding is serious in many parts of Mozambique, Ponta Malongane’s coastal route remains open:
Routes Still Accessible
- Via Kosi Bay border crossing (South Africa → Mozambique)
- Via Komatipoort / Ressano Garcia → Maputo
- Both routes continue to be used safely for travellers heading to Ponta Malongane.
Areas with Travel Disruption
Roads and infrastructure north of Maputo and in some inland regions may still be impacted or inaccessible due to high water levels and damaged bridges.
Travel Tips
Travelling during the Mozambique summer (rainy season) can be beautiful – but it also means:
- Roads, especially dirt roads, can be slippery or waterlogged after storms.
- Always check weather forecasts before departure.
- 4×4 or high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended during and after heavy rain.
- Offline maps + extra fuel/food/water are smart precautions when travelling rural routes.
If You Experience a Problem
We recommend keeping these contacts handy while travelling:
Halo Gaia
Halo Gaia will support guests with updated road conditions, local guidance, and travel advice whenever needed.
- SA: +27 73 544 1485
- Moz: +258 85 315 8914
- WhatsApp: +27 83 666 3355
Emergency Services
- Mozambique General Emergency (Police / Fire / Ambulance): 112 (Nationwide emergency number)
- Police Emergency: 119 (Use if 112 is unavailable)
- Medical / Ambulance: 117 (Medical emergencies and ambulance services)
- Fire & Rescue Services: 198
- Mobile coverage can vary in rural or coastal areas. If one number does not connect, try an alternative emergency line.
- Tourist Assistance / Embassy Support (if you’re being assisted from abroad) South African High Commission / Embassy (Travellers entering via South Africa are advised to keep embassy contact details accessible).
- Your Own Country’s Embassy or Consular Travel Support Line (Check and save contact details before departure.)
- Travel Insurance Provider: Have your policy number and emergency hotline easily accessible, and contact your provider immediately if road access, medical services, or onward travel are affected.
Ways to Support Affected Communities
Many families and communities across central and northern Mozambique need help due to flooding, water scarcity, and food insecurity. If you would like to support relief efforts, consider:
Trusted Ways To Help
UNICEF Mozambique – Emergency Flood Relief UNICEF is actively responding to the flooding crisis, providing safe water, nutrition, health services and protection for children and vulnerable families in affected parts of Mozambique. You can make one-time or monthly donations to support their work.
Donate to UNICEF’s Mozambique Flood Response
Save the Children – Mozambique Relief & Support Save the Children supports children and families with vital humanitarian services, including emergency aid, protection, health, and nutrition programs. Their Mozambique page includes options to donate directly.
Support Save the Children in Mozambique
UNHCR – Mozambique Emergency Support The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) provides shelter materials, core relief items, and protection for displaced families — especially those vulnerable due to conflict and climate disasters.
Donate to UNHCR Mozambique Emergency Appeal
International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies / Mozambique Red Cross – The Red Cross movement delivers shelter supplies, clean water, sanitation, and emergency relief through national and international networks.
Support Red Cross Mozambique Flood Relief
GlobalGiving – Mozambique Flood & Disaster Relief Funds GlobalGiving hosts vetted on-the-ground projects for immediate food, shelter, and recovery efforts that contributors can support directly.
Donate via GlobalGiving Mozambique Relief
Ocean & Activity Conditions This Week in Ponta Malongane
Sea & Water Conditions
- Sea Surface Temperature: The water near Ponta Malongane is warm and very comfortable for swimming and most ocean activities, with temperatures around 26.9–27.2 °C (80–81 °F) – ideal for dolphin swims and snorkelling.
- Wave Height & Sea State: Forecast data indicate that wave heights are elevated (often above 1 m / ~3 ft) in the coming days, and the sea can be rough at times, especially further offshore. Such conditions are not ideal for casual swimming far from shore and may affect calmer boat tours or novice snorkelling. When waves are consistently above ~1.5 m (~5 ft), swimming and small boat activities become riskier – even for experienced swimmers or divers.
- General Weather & Wind Forecasts show passing showers and cloudy spells with warm temperatures this week – typical for the summer season – but also some sunny breaks that still make the coast appealing for outdoor ocean experiences. Winds can vary but are generally moderate to fresh at times, which can increase surface chop and current strength inshore.
- Diving & Dolphin Swim Outlook Diving Visibility & Currents: Although specific visibility forecasts for diving aren’t published daily for Ponta Malongane, nearby dive areas (e.g., Ponta do Ouro) often experience variable currents and stronger offshore movement, especially with increased wave activity. Diver operators typically assess conditions on the day to ensure safety.
- Dolphin Swims & Boat Tours: Warm water temperatures are great for dolphin swims and snorkelling. However, rougher seas and waves above ~1 m can make boat trips and kayak tours bumpier and less comfortable – and less predictable for wildlife encounters. Operators may adjust departure times or routes based on real-time conditions for safety and comfort.
What This Means For Guests
Best for Dolphin swims, snorkelling, surf trips, and scenic boat tours when seas are calmer – especially early morning when winds are lighter.
⚠️ Be cautious of: Strong surface waves, choppy sea conditions, and changing currents – especially if heading offshore or planning extended swim/diving sessions.
🛟 Safety Tip: Always check with your local boat/diving operator on the day of your trip – they will have the latest sea state info and decide if conditions are safe.
Current Outlook
Ponta Malongane is experiencing typical summer (rainy-season) conditions, with warm temperatures, passing cloud cover, and occasional showers. There is no active tropical cyclone forecast to make landfall along the Ponta Malongane coastline this week.
Please check your local weather apps and meteorological data for more specific information.
Final Note from Halo Gaia
Though flooding is impacting many parts of Mozambique and poses serious risks in certain regions, we want to reassure guests and future travellers that:
- Ponta Malongane remains accessible and hospitable
- Travel routes from South Africa are open and traversable
- Halo Gaia is ready to support your trip planning and arrival
If you have questions about your travel dates, road access, or safety planning, we’re just a WhatsApp or call away. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.