Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
THREE people escaped after a vehicle they were travelling in was swept away along Umzingwane River in West Nicholson area.
Gwanda District Civil Protection Committee chairperson, Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu confirmed the incident which occurred on Sunday 15 February at around 4AM.
“An Isuzu double cab vehicle was swept away by Umzingwane River, 20 kilometers from West Nicholson turn off, at around 4:00 AM today, 15 Feb 2026. Three passengers, two of them a a couple managed to escape and reached a village 6 km away, where they alerted community members.
“The matter was reported to the Civil Protection Committee. The vehicle, with all belongings, is still in the river, but the water level has receded. The survivors, from Reata Plots, require assistance retrieving their vehicle and transportation,” she said.
Ms Ndlovu warned motorists and pedestrians against crossing flooded rivers to avoid loss of life.
She said with heavy rains which were reported to be expected in most parts of the country there is need for members of the public to apply precautionary measures.
“We caution the public to exercise extreme caution as rivers are currently full due to heavy rainfall. Despite warnings, some individuals are recklessly attempting to cross flooded rivers, putting their lives at risk.
“We urge everyone to avoid taking unnecessary risks. We implore everyone to prioritise their safety and well-being. If a river is flooded people would rather wait for the water to subside before crossing,” she said.
@DubeMatutu
