Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Reporter
THE death toll from rain-induced incidents during the current 2025/26 rainy season has risen from 61 to 70, while 1 043 homesteads have been damaged, the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) has announced.
In its latest update, the department said Manicaland Province recorded the highest number of fatalities at 31, followed by Mashonaland West with 19 deaths, while 13 people lost their lives in the Midlands Province.
Manicaland also tops the list of provinces with damaged or destroyed homesteads, recording 510 affected households, followed by Mashonaland East with 192.
The DCP further expressed concern over damage to education infrastructure ahead of schools reopening on Tuesday.
Masvingo Province has recorded damage to seven schools, while Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central and Midlands have six affected schools each — one more than the number recorded in Matabeleland South.
Authorities have urged communities to exercise caution during the remainder of the rainy season, particularly around flooded rivers, unsafe structures and waterlogged areas, as more rainfall is expected in parts of the country.
derick.khumalo