Storm leaves 244 in the lurch

The storm killed two people and is said to have left more than 1 200 people without food, clothing and shelter.

“The situation is still desperate and the number of those in need has swollen to about 244 families although it was initially thought that only 95 had been affected. People are sleeping in the open and the National Civil Protection Unit has mobilised tents, they are still to be delivered,” said Mrs Chitiyo.

Mrs Chitiyo expressed worry over disease outbreaks.

“We are concerned about the possibility of a disease outbreak due to the absence of clean drinking water and proper sanitation conditions,” she said.

“We are appealing for medical assistance and the Zimbabwe National Army Five Brigade has pitched a tent in the area but there are extreme shortages in supplies. Some people have been severely wounded and need urgent assistance.”

Mrs Chitiyo said there was a need for fuel supplies for the available assistance to be ferried to the affected families and additional transport facilities since Government only had small trucks.

“A lot of non-governmental organisations have also come in to help the situation and we are hoping this kind of commitment will go a long way,” said Mrs Chitiyo.