Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu
A VIOLENT storm that pounded Gwanda Urban on Wednesday night has left five families homeless and caused damage to infrastructure at Senondo Primary school.
Heavy rains tore rooftops off houses and battered buildings.
The Civil Protection Committee has since moved in to assist, with temporary shelter being arranged for the affected households.
Gwanda District disaster risk reduction focal person, Awakhiwe Moyo, said the storm struck on 5 November, prompting immediate assessments by local authorities working closely with councillors, the mayor’s office and ward disaster structures.
“On the evening of 5 November, the office received reports that the rains had left a trail of destruction in Gwanda Urban and preliminary assessments were done immediately. Working with councillors, the mayor and chairpersons of disaster management structures, we assessed the damage,” he said.
He said five families were left totally homeless after their entire rooftops were blown away, with household property soaked and destroyed by rainwater.
However, all families managed to find temporary accommodation for the night.
Moyo said Gwanda-Tshitaudze Member of Parliament, Fisani Moyo, has pledged to help the affected households with alternative shelter and groceries.
A comprehensive technical report, including bills of quantities to establish the full extent of damage and costs, is still being compiled.
No injuries or loss of life have been reported.
At Senondo Primary School, several classrooms suffered damage to roofs, doors and windows, disrupting learning and exposing pupils to risk.
Moyo appealed to community members, local businesses and well-wishers to assist the affected families and the school.
“Those who can help, please come forward so that these families can recover,” he said.
@DubeMatutu
