More floods loom in Zimbabwe
By Helen Kadirire
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecast countrywide flooding, as heavy rains continue to pound the country.
So far, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has confirmed that areas that have been hit by flash floods include parts of Guruve, Mt Darwin, Chitungwiza, Marange, Buhera, Mutasa, Bulilima Mangwe and Victoria Falls.
Senior forecaster Tich Zinyemba said most parts of the country will receive way above normal rains.
“In general, more rains are expected countrywide and we are also forecasting the continuation of heavy rains in excess of 50 millimetres (mm) in 24 hours in all provinces.
“Widespread flooding is therefore anticipated,” he said.
He also warned that people must seek shelter in the event of thunderstorms and not cross rivers and streams where the depth is unknown.
The CPU has also warned people to be vigilant and know their weather forecast to avoid being caught in bad weather.
“Civil Protection structures are responding in the different parts of the country. Assistance such as tents, clothing and other items are being provided on a need basis.
“All Civil Protection structures in the country are on high alert,” CPU deputy director Sibusisiwe Ndhlovu said.
The flood warnings come after residents in Budiriro 5 had their property destroyed when the banks of Marimba River burst on Friday last week.
The Budiriro 5 floods come after Mbare residents had thousands of dollars’ worth of property destroyed by flooding during the festive period.
The Mbare residents have since demanded $57 000 in damages for the property they lost to the floods.
HCC spokesperson Michael Chideme said the city will be investigating how those families in Budiriro were allocated residential stands a few metres from the river.
“The stands were allocated to a housing cooperative named Common Vision several years back. Investigations will ascertain the authenticity of the layout plan and whether the affected stands are within the approved plan,” he said. Daily News
