Overview: Higher January water levels in Orange and Zambezi
Rivers in southern Africa showed contrasting trends in their January readings for 2026. Data from the Hydrological Services of Namibia indicate that the Orange and Zambezi rivers carried more water this January than in January 2025. By contrast, the Kavango and Kunene rivers posted declines compared with the previous year. The latest figures underscore a shifting hydrological picture across the region, driven by seasonal rainfall patterns and catchment conditions in the catchment areas feeding these river systems.
What the numbers suggest for Orange River
The Orange River, one of the longest rivers in Southern Africa, experienced higher water levels in January 2026 than in January 2025. Analysts point to increased rainfall in the upper catchments and a stronger snowmelt signal in the mountain regions that feed the river. The elevated flow conditions can influence downstream water availability for communities and agriculture, especially in the arid zones where the Orange serves as a critical lifeline. Hydrological services emphasize that sustained monitoring will determine whether these higher levels translate into a more reliable water supply through the late summer and early autumn months.
Zambezi: A rise in early 2026
The Zambezi River, which traverses several countries including Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe, also recorded higher January levels in 2026 compared with 2025. This uptick aligns with wetter spell patterns across the upper basins and may reflect broader regional climate variability. For communities along the Zambezi, such changes can affect flood risk management, hydroelectric generation, and irrigation planning. Officials caution that while higher January readings are encouraging for water availability, continued forecasts and reservoir management will be critical to balancing flood risk with sustained water supply later in the year.
Kavango and Kunene: Declines observed
In contrast, the Kavango and Kunene rivers showed declines in January 2026 relative to January 2025. The Kavango, which forms part of the northern Namibian river system, and the Kunene, running along the Angolan-Namibian border, appear more sensitive to shorter-term rainfall fluctuations and regional drying trends. These downturns may reduce inflows to downstream reservoirs and increase the importance of careful water budgeting for rural communities and ecosystems that rely on these rivers. Hydrological authorities will continue to monitor groundwater recharge and surface-water availability to mitigate potential shortages as the year progresses.
Implications for water management and planning
Higher January levels in the Orange and Zambezi can offer a window of opportunity for water managers, farmers and urban planners to optimize storage and distribution. Conversely, declines in Kavango and Kunene remind policymakers to adopt adaptive strategies, such as targeted water conservation, improved irrigation efficiency, and robust flood-warning systems. Regional cooperation remains key, as cross-border river basins require coordinated hydrological data sharing and joint risk management to protect communities and ecosystems across borders.
What to watch next
Hydrological Services of Namibia and regional agencies will release follow-up monthly updates, including rainfall, river inflows, reservoir levels and evaporation data. For residents and stakeholders along these rivers, staying informed about forecasted rainfall and potential flood or drought indicators will help in planning for agriculture, domestic use and energy generation.
