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Nokuthula Dube
Heavy localised downpours that have hit the country since the commencement of the rainy season have damaged 24 schools across six provinces so far, along with 102 houses and infrastructure at two clinics, the Department of Civil Protection has said.
The Government has since activated all civil protection structures at national and local levels to respond to weather-related emergencies.
In its latest situation report, the department noted that rains have already caused massive destruction to property in some parts of the country.
“The 2024/2025 rainfall season has commenced and localised heavy downpours have been experienced in some parts of the country,” reads the report.
“Damage to houses and schools have been reported since the onset of the rainfall season.”
In Masvingo, the report reads, two people were marooned in Mucheke River following heavy rains on November 6.
Police and Masvingo City Council officials safely rescued the duo.
“Meanwhile, in Runyararo West, Davies Mugabe Street, five houses were flooded by the rains, resulting in household property, food and medicines getting ruined.
“Notably, these households get affected each time the area receives some rain. The key contributing factor is that the houses were built on a wetland and near a stream.”
In Umguza District, isolated downpours and strong winds on November 6 caused extensive damage to schools, clinics, and homes in Wards 17, 1, and 3.
At Mthombothemba Primary School in Ward 1, the storm tore off the roofs of seven classrooms, two teachers’ cottages, and the school’s perimeter fence.
Ngazini Primary School also suffered severe damage, with two classroom blocks collapsing due to the violent storm.
No injuries were reported, but the damage left more than 20 homes without roofs in Ward 17, with further assessments in the area still ongoing.
Meanwhile, in Mutare District’s Nyagundi Ward 34, lightning struck a round hut, affecting seven people and destroying household goods and food.
Online Reporter