Current Okavango Flood Report – 31 July 2026
This Okavango Delta Flood Report provides the latest satellite-derived assessment of water conditions based on observations from 31 July 2026. Flood extent has been analysed across the Panhandle, Central Delta, Peripheral Delta, Southern Delta and Maun to identify where water is increasing, decreasing or remaining stable.
The report compares current conditions against the previous satellite observation and historical flood seasons, providing insight into flood progression throughout the Okavango Delta.
Compared with the previous observation on 25 July 2026, total open water extent has decreased by -621.4 km². Declining water extent was observed in Panhandle, Central Delta, Peripheral Delta, Southern Delta, Maun.
Observation and comparison dates
- Satellite observation date
- 31 July 2026
- Previous comparison date
- 25 July 2026
- Previous year comparison date
- 31 July 2025
- Report generation date
- 31 July 2026 at 08:44 UTC
Panhandle
Panhandle currently has 288.4 km² of open water. Water extent has decreased by -75.1 km² (-20.6%) since the previous observation on 25 July 2026. Compared with 31 July 2025, open water extent has increased by +43.5 km² (+17.8%).
Major locations including Sepupa Swamp Stop and Shakawe River Lodge are within areas showing declining open water extent across the Panhandle.
- Current water area
- 288.4 km²
- Change since previous image
- -75.1 km² (-20.6%)
- Change since same date last year
- +43.5 km² (+17.8%)
AI Environmental Interpretation
As of July 31, 2026, the Panhandle has experienced a decrease in open water extent, with a reduction of approximately 75 km² since the previous observation. However, it is important to note that this region is characterized by permanent river channels, which generally maintain reliable water availability throughout the year. The recent decline in water area may expose more channels and shallow areas, enhancing access for boating and fishing activities.
Despite the decrease, the Panhandle has seen an increase of about 44 km² compared to the same time last year, indicating some resilience in water levels over the longer term. Current temperatures are stable at around 22.7°C, with no recent rainfall, which suggests that evaporation rates may not be significantly impacted at this time. The absence of fire detections further indicates a relatively stable environmental condition in the region.
Overall, the ecological balance remains intact, and the permanent channels continue to support fish populations and other wildlife, which may be concentrated in these areas as water levels fluctuate.
What this means for visitors
For visitors, the decrease in open water extent may mean that access to certain areas for boating and fishing could be improved as more channels become exposed. Anglers may find excellent opportunities in the permanent channels, particularly for targeting species like tigerfish. Overall, the Panhandle remains a viable destination for water-based activities.
Expected next conditions
If current trends persist, water levels in the Panhandle may continue to fluctuate, with potential for further exposure of channels as the dry season progresses.
Other monitored locations
- Athoma guesthouse
- Drotsky's Cabins
- Drotsky's Cabins
- EdenWood guesthouse
- Hawk Guest House
- Kigelia Adventure Lodge
- Mbiroba Camp
- Nguma Island
- Nguma Island Lodge
- Shakawe River Lodge Campground
- Supupa Swamp camp
Water extent is derived from satellite imagery processed at approximately 50 m spatial resolution. Results may contain uncertainty caused by mixed pixels, flooded vegetation, narrow channels and areas where vegetation obscures surface water.
Central Delta
Central Delta currently has 2,681 km² of open water. Water extent has decreased by -376.9 km² (-12.3%) since the previous observation on 25 July 2026. Compared with 31 July 2025, open water extent has increased by +403 km² (+17.7%).
Major locations including Camp Okavango, Gunn's Camp, Jao Camp, Kadizora, Kiri Camp, Little Vumbura, Mopiri, Mopiri Camp, Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp, Oddballs Camp, Vumbura Plains Camp, and Xigera Safari Camp are within areas showing declining open water extent across the Central Delta.
- Current water area
- 2,681 km²
- Change since previous image
- -376.9 km² (-12.3%)
- Change since same date last year
- +403 km² (+17.7%)
AI Environmental Interpretation
The Central Delta has seen a significant decrease in water area, with a loss of approximately 377 km² since the last observation. This decline is typical for this time of year as the seasonal flood pulse from Angola begins to recede. However, compared to the same period last year, the water area has increased by about 403 km², highlighting the dynamic nature of this floodplain environment.
With stable temperatures around 22.9°C and no recent rainfall, the current conditions suggest that the remaining water sources are becoming increasingly vital for wildlife. As the dry season progresses, animals are likely to concentrate around these diminishing water bodies, enhancing wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors. The presence of fire activity, with 10 detections noted, indicates that some seasonal burning is occurring, which could impact vegetation and animal movements in the area.
Overall, while the water levels are decreasing, the ecological dynamics are still favorable for wildlife concentration around the remaining water sources.
What this means for visitors
Visitors to the Central Delta can expect excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as animals gather around the remaining water bodies. However, the decrease in water area may affect the accessibility of some areas, so planning for potential changes in road conditions is advisable.
Expected next conditions
If current trends continue, water levels in the Central Delta may stabilize or decrease further, making the remaining water sources increasingly important for wildlife in the coming weeks.
Other monitored locations
- Abu Camp
- Delta Camp
- Duba Explorers Camp
- Duba Plains
- Eagle Island Camp
- Jao Campsite
- Kala Camp
- Kanana Camp
- Kwara Camp
- Kwedi
- Kwetsani Camp
- Little Tubu Camp
- Moremi Crossing
- Oddballs enclave
- Okavango Island
- Pom Pom Camp
- Sanctuary Chiefs Camp
- Seba Camp
- Shindi Camp
- Vumbura North Camp
- Vumbura South Camp
- Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge
- Xugana Lodge
Water extent is derived from satellite imagery processed at approximately 50 m spatial resolution. Results may contain uncertainty caused by mixed pixels, flooded vegetation, narrow channels and areas where vegetation obscures surface water.
Peripheral Delta
Peripheral Delta currently has 735.4 km² of open water. Water extent has decreased by -73.2 km² (-9.1%) since the previous observation on 25 July 2026. Compared with 31 July 2025, open water extent has increased by +292.6 km² (+66.1%).
- Current water area
- 735.4 km²
- Change since previous image
- -73.2 km² (-9.1%)
- Change since same date last year
- +292.6 km² (+66.1%)
AI Environmental Interpretation
The Peripheral Delta has also experienced a reduction in water area, with a decrease of about 73 km² since the last observation. Despite this decline, the area has seen a substantial increase of approximately 293 km² compared to the same time last year, indicating a strong seasonal response to flooding earlier in the year. The current stable temperature of 21.8°C, combined with a lack of rainfall, suggests that the water levels are influenced primarily by evaporation at this stage of the dry season.
The presence of 67 fire detections indicates that seasonal burning is active in the region, which can lead to changes in vegetation and habitat availability. This activity should be monitored as it may influence wildlife movements and habitat conditions in the coming weeks.
Overall, the ecological dynamics in the Peripheral Delta remain vibrant, although the recent decrease in water area may lead to changes in habitat availability for wildlife.
What this means for visitors
For visitors, the decrease in water area may mean that some peripheral habitats are becoming less accessible. However, the increased fire activity could enhance wildlife viewing opportunities as animals adapt to changing conditions. Visitors should remain flexible in their plans to account for potential changes in accessibility.
Expected next conditions
If current trends persist, water levels in the Peripheral Delta may continue to fluctuate, with potential impacts on wildlife distribution and habitat availability.
Other monitored locations
- Bogah's Place
- Duke's Camp
- Ganetsang's Place
- Manager's Headquater
- Mapula Lodge
- Mapula Lodge
Water extent is derived from satellite imagery processed at approximately 50 m spatial resolution. Results may contain uncertainty caused by mixed pixels, flooded vegetation, narrow channels and areas where vegetation obscures surface water.
Southern Delta
Southern Delta currently has 1,067.2 km² of open water. Water extent has decreased by -87.4 km² (-7.6%) since the previous observation on 25 July 2026. Compared with 31 July 2025, open water extent has increased by +538.6 km² (+101.9%).
Major locations including Camp Moremi, Campiste North Gate, Little Sable, Magotho Camp, Mogotlho Safari Lodge, Sandibe, Stanley's Camp, Xakanaxa Camp, and Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp are within areas showing declining open water extent across the Southern Delta.
- Current water area
- 1,067.2 km²
- Change since previous image
- -87.4 km² (-7.6%)
- Change since same date last year
- +538.6 km² (+101.9%)
AI Environmental Interpretation
The Southern Delta has recorded a decrease in water area of approximately 87 km² since the last observation. However, it is important to note that this region has experienced a significant increase of about 539 km² compared to the same time last year, indicating the continued movement of the annual flood pulse through the Delta system. Current stable temperatures around 23.5°C and no recent rainfall suggest that evaporation is influencing water levels at this time.
The presence of 84 fire detections indicates that seasonal burning is occurring, which may affect vegetation and wildlife patterns in the area. This fire activity should be monitored as it can lead to changes in habitat conditions.
Overall, while the Southern Delta is experiencing a decrease in water area, the longer-term trends indicate a positive response to seasonal flooding, supporting the diverse wildlife that relies on these habitats.
What this means for visitors
Visitors to the Southern Delta can expect good wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly as animals gather around the remaining water sources. However, the decrease in water area may impact access to certain areas, so it is advisable to check local conditions before planning activities.
Expected next conditions
If current trends continue, water levels in the Southern Delta may stabilize or decrease further, emphasizing the importance of remaining water bodies for wildlife in the coming weeks.
Other monitored locations
- Atzaro Camp
- Baines Camp
- Banoka Bush Camp
- Black Pool BOGA
- Boga Camp Site Magweqwana
- Boga site 1
- Boga site second bridge
- Butlers
- Camp Okuti
- Chitabe Camp
- Circle Rd site
- Delta Campsite
- Elephant Pool camp 1
- Elephant Pool cap 1
- Glamping tent town
- Gomoti Plains Camp
- Hatab Camp Mgr 13 Hidden Lagoon Closed
- Hatab MGR 15
- Hatab MGR 2
- Khwai Expedition Camp
- Khwai Guest House
- Khwai River Lodge
- Khwai Tented Camp
- Kwando Splash Camp
- Kwapa Training Camp
- Little Sable
- Machaba Camp
- Magothlo Camp 7
- Magothlo Camp 7
- Mbudi Camping grounds
- Mbudi Campsite
- Mbudi Campsite 1
- Mbudi Campsite 2
- Mbudi Campsite 3
- Mbudi campsite 8
- Mukutshumu Camp
- Nagapie Camp Site
- North Forest Cam AGA
- Nxagara
- Nxaraga Campsite
- Restricted site MGR 12
- RraDinare
- Sable alley (Khwai Private Reserve)
- Sango Safari Camp
- Starling Lodge
- Tracker Dogs
- Tsaro Elephant Lodge
- Tshaa Campsite 1
- Tshaa Campsite 1
- Tshaa Campsite 5
- Tuludi camp
- Xakanaxa Camp Site
- Xini Lagoon Campsite Mgr 14
- Xini Restricted Site
Water extent is derived from satellite imagery processed at approximately 50 m spatial resolution. Results may contain uncertainty caused by mixed pixels, flooded vegetation, narrow channels and areas where vegetation obscures surface water.
Maun
Maun currently has 222 km² of open water. Water extent has decreased by -8.9 km² (-3.8%) since the previous observation on 25 July 2026. Compared with 31 July 2025, open water extent has increased by +158.4 km² (+249.3%).
- Current water area
- 222 km²
- Change since previous image
- -8.9 km² (-3.8%)
- Change since same date last year
- +158.4 km² (+249.3%)
AI Environmental Interpretation
In Maun, the water area has decreased slightly by about 8.9 km² since the last observation. However, this represents a significant increase of approximately 158 km² compared to the same time last year. The stable temperature of 22.2°C, combined with no recent rainfall, indicates that water levels are being affected by evaporation rather than precipitation at this time.
The detection of 33 fires in the area suggests some seasonal burning activity, which could impact local vegetation and wildlife patterns. Monitoring these fires is essential as they may influence the surrounding ecosystem.
Overall, while water levels are decreasing, the longer-term trend indicates a positive response to seasonal conditions, and the area remains an important hub for tourism and logistics.
What this means for visitors
For visitors, the slight decrease in water area may not significantly impact access or activities in Maun. The town remains a vital gateway for exploring the Delta, and water-based activities should still be viable.
Expected next conditions
If current trends persist, water levels in Maun may continue to fluctuate slightly, but the overall conditions should remain stable for tourism and access.
Other monitored locations
- Adansonia Hotel
- Alfa
- Botshelo Guesthouse
- Camping Site
- Centre Lodge
- Cresta Hotel
- Croc Camp
- Days Inn Guesthouse
- Delta Guesthouse Accomodation
- Discovery B&B
- Dolar Lodge
- Douglas Camp & Outdoors
- Gomoti River Lodge
- John Shorobe entrance
- Kamanga Safari Hotel
- Kamanga safari lodge
- Larissa Hotel
- Luxury Wild Inn
- Madou Lodge
- Maun Lodge
- Maun Restcamp
- Mochba Crossing Lodge
- Motsebe Backpackers
- Nako Okavango Guest House / Camp
- Okavango River Lodge
- Okavanto roadside guesthouse
- Queness Guest House
- Raintree Campsite
- Riverise Guesthouse
- Rivernest
- Royal Tree Lodge
- Sedia Riverside Hotel
- Sedia Riverside Hotel Campsite
- Sitatunga Camp
- Smoe Lodge
- Thamalakane River Lodge
- The Old Bridge Backpackers
- The Royal M&G
- The Waterfront Lodge
- Toteng Site
- Tree Lodge
- Tshima Bush Camp
- Tswii Okavango Lodge
- Xaoo Camp
Water extent is derived from satellite imagery processed at approximately 50 m spatial resolution. Results may contain uncertainty caused by mixed pixels, flooded vegetation, narrow channels and areas where vegetation obscures surface water.
Overall Okavango Delta Flood Status
The Okavango Delta currently contains 4,993.9 km² of open water across all reporting regions combined. Compared with the previous observation on 25 July 2026, total open water has decreased by -621.4 km² (-11.1%). Relative to 31 July 2025, total open water has increased by +1,436.2 km² (+40.4%). The greatest increase occurred in Maun. Panhandle showed the largest decline in open water extent.
- Total current water area
- 4,993.9 km²
- Total change since previous image
- -621.4 km² (-11.1%)
- Total change vs previous year
- +1,436.2 km² (+40.4%)