George Maponga, Masvingo Bureau
HUNDREDS of families and businesses in Masvingo City and surrounding areas were left counting their losses last night after a hailstorm accompanied by violent winds caused extensive damage to property.
The storm battered houses and offices in the central business district, damaged vehicles and brought down powerlines and trees.
The Provincial Civil Protection Unit activated its disaster response as the city endured what was described as one of the worst extreme weather events in recent memory.
The storm also triggered a power outage after power lines were brought down.
When the hailstorm subsided around 7PMm, several houses had been left exposed after windows and roofs were damaged, allowing rainwater to flood the interiors.
Cars were also damaged, while furniture shops and supermarkets in the city had their windows shattered, leaving glass strewn across pavements.
Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa said the city was reeling from the effects of the hailstorm.
“The hailstorm and violent winds shattered windows on both homes and offices and vehicles were also damaged,” he said.
“We will start counting the actual cost of the damage tomorrow morning (today) and we have activated the civil protection unit to assist those in dire straits.”
