Online Reporter
Laura Maposa
THE Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has warned communities downstream of spilling dams to remain alert and avoid crossing, fishing, bathing, swimming in flooded rivers.
Consistent rainfall activity across most of the country has led to increased water levels in most dams and rivers. This has raised the risk of flooding in downstream and low-lying areas.
As of last week, the national dam level average stands at 70,9 percent.
In a statement ZINWA said:
“In view of the above, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) would like to advise the public to be on high alert and to observe the following − do not cross or drive through flooded rivers, do not fish from flooded rivers.
“Monitor the movement of children and livestock, secure irrigation equipment, if told to evacuate or move to higher ground, do so immediately.
“Movement of livestock and children should also be closely monitored.
“We have recorded a big improvement in dam inflows compared to the same period last year, thereby providing a glimmer of hope amid persistent water supply challenges.
According to the statistics, several dams, including Exchange, Manyuchi Dam are at 99.5 percent, Silalabuhwa is at 100 percent and Lake Mutirikwi is at 100 percent full.
Manyame Dam Level is now at 76.6 percent full, Osborne Dam Level is at 67.5 percent full while others have recorded significant gains.
Statistics show Masembura Dam is 93.1 percent full, Arcadia Dam is 82.6 percent full, Zhovhe Dam is 92.6 percent full, Chivero is 73.2 percent full, Tugwi Mukosi is 96 percent full, and Mazvikadei Dam is 70.2 percent This improvement is attributed to the recent rains received across the country.
However, there are a few dams that still have low water levels.
Mwenje Dam is at 12.6 percent full, Lower Ncema is 7 percent full, Inyankuni Dam Level is 9.8 percent full, Seke Dam is 16.3 percent full, Mazowe Dam is 32.8 percent full.
