MSD warns of fresh flash floods as heavy rains per...

MSD warns of fresh flash floods as heavy rains persist

Zim Now Writer

The Meteorological Services Department has warned of fresh flash floods as torrential rains are expected in the southern parts of the country, covering Bulawayo, Masvingo, Midlands, Matabeleland North and South provinces.

Rains in these areas are expected to be as much as 65 millimetres within 24 hours.

“The effects of a cut off low, expected from Thursday 16 February into the weekend should be felt in most parts of the country with heavy rains expected in the southern half of the country. Rainfall in excess of 65 mm in 24 hours with a high probability of flash floods in the low lying areas are anticipated. This is normal for this time of the year, especially in the season that is expected to have above normal to normal rains,” reads the MSD statement.

There have been reports that children who cross rivers on their way to school have been cut off as rains continue to fall across the country.

The MSD and Department of Civil Protection have warned people against crossing flooded rivers.Although the bulk of the country has been receiving heavy rains of late, Bulawayo dam water levels have remained critically low.

The Zimbabwe National Water Authority’s latest update on national dam levels, Umzingwane and Upper Ncema Dams are 12 percent, Lower Ncema 22 percent, Inyankuni 39 percent, Insiza 42 percent, and Mtshabezi 74 percent full.

Zinwa corporate communications and marketing manager, Marjorie Munyonga said Bulawayo, together with Mt Darwin, and Mutoko, remain water insecure with less than 12 months of supplies in their raw water sources, which constitute 8.5 percent.

“Centres that remain water insecure with less than 12 months’ supplies in their raw water sources constitute 8.5 percent and include Mt Darwin, Bulawayo, and Mutoko. At proportion, 40.4 percent of the urban centres, towns, growth points and rural service centres are in the moderate category with their water supply dams holding water sufficient to last periods between 12 and 20.9 months,” said Munyonga.