Sidojiwe flats families affected as heavy rains damage roofs

Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor

Several families at Sidojiwe Flats in Bulawayo were affected after strong winds accompanying heavy rains blew off roofs at the complex on the top floor on Monday morning.

Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo, said the incident occurred as the city was being pounded by persistent rainfall from the morning, leaving households exposed to the elements.

“It’s the top floor at Sidojiwe with several families affected. We are trying to cover the blown-off roofs with tarpaulin salvage sheets,” said Mr Moyo.

The Bulawayo Fire Brigade was deployed to the flats to assess the damage and carry out emergency interventions aimed at preventing further losses as the rains continued.

The incident is among several weather-related challenges reported across Bulawayo following the heavy rains that disrupted normal activities in the city.