Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
THE rain-induced death toll since the start of the 2025/26 rainfall season has risen from 50 to 60 within a week, with three members of one family among the latest fatalities.
In its seventh Situation Report (SitRep), the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) said the three family members drowned at Maremo Dam in Centenary on December 14.
The deceased are Stephen Dzikani (50), Taurai Dzikani (17) and Success Kamburungwe (14). Two other family members — Prisca Chitando (30) and Tanya Dzikani (43) — were rescued by brave community members.
“Zimbabwe experienced intense rainfall leading to widespread impacts across multiple provinces. The weather advisory issued by the Meteorological Services Department in conjunction with the Department of Civil Protection for the period 15–19 December 2025 indicated that heavy rains, lightning, hailstorms and strong winds were expected in areas such as Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central provinces,” said the CPU.
The report further revealed that since the onset of the rainfall season, at least 490 households, 28 schools and three health institutions have been damaged or affected.
The CPU continues to urge members of the public to exercise caution during the rainy season and to avoid crossing flooded rivers and dams.
