Flood alert issued as rains come down

Zim Now Reporter

The Department of Civil Protection has activated emergency response systems to assist communities in vulnerable, low-lying areas and warned people to stay safe as heavy rains hit different parts of the country.

The department said there should special care taken of children so that they are not exposed to danger of drowning.

“We will continuously monitor the situation and update the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education about the safety of school children,” said Civil Protection Unit Director Nathan Nkomo reassured the public that a disaster contingency plan is in place.

He also urged people to avoid trying to cross flooded streams and rivers as 30cm of water can sweep away a car.

Heavy downpours exceeding 50mm within 24 hours are anticipated, over Matabeleland, Masvingo, and Manicaland while Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Harare are also at risk of flooding.

The heavy rains killed a school child in Mberengwa, affected 21 schools and 2 health centres.

In Umguza District schools and homes were damaged.

In Masvingo, two people were marooned in Mucheke River but were safely rescued.

In Nyagundi, Mutare, lightning struck a hut, affecting seven people.