Name of Waterfall

Ruacana Falls

GPS Coordinates (Approximate)

Omusati, Namibie, Angola

Location

Omusati, Namibie, Angola

Description

Ruacana Falls is among the largest waterfalls in Africa both based on volume and width. The Kunene River drops 352 feet (107 meters) over a broad semi crescent shaped, angled scarp into a narrow gorge which straddles the border of Angola and Namibia (the primary viewpoints are located in Namibia). At times of peak discharge the falls may stretch over 3,500 feet wide, but because the volume of the Kunene River varies greatly from season to season the actual width and volume of the falls varies greatly.
Additionally, the river has been harnessed for hydroelectric production immediately above the falls. During the dry season the river is siphoned off entirely and the falls run dry. From roughly December to June the annual monsoons provide ample sustenance to the river basin that the hydro project maxes out and the falls return to their impressive natural state.

Other Names

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Magnitude

100

Absolute Magnitude

177.86

IWC Rating (International Waterfall Classification)

6.81

Total Height (ft)

352

Tallest Drop

352

Number of Drops

1

Average Width

2280

Maximum Width

3500

Average High Volume (Cubic ft per second)

5,200 cfs (6 months)

Average Low Volume (Cubic ft per second)

25 cfs (6 months)

Pitch

70 degrees

Run (ft)

300

Watershed or Feeder Stream

Kunene River Kunene River