Zimbabwe Faces Tragedy as 60 Die in Rainfall-Related Incidents

Zimbabwe has reported 60 deaths and nine injuries due to rainfall-related incidents since October. Heavy rains have caused severe damage to critical infrastructure. The government, led by President Mnangagwa, is actively involved in recovery and safety measures while advising citizens on storm precautions.

Harare has reported 60 fatalities and nine injuries linked to rainfall-related incidents since the onset of the rainy season in October. The Department of Civil Protection (DCP) noted that heavy rains, which followed below-average precipitation from October to December, have triggered multiple disasters, including drownings and lightning strikes, impacting communities across Zimbabwe.

The continuous downpours have severely damaged vital public infrastructure, such as schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, dams, and even electricity poles. The DCP’s situation report highlights the urgent need for recovery efforts as municipalities grapple with the damage inflicted by this relentless rainy season.

In response, President Emmerson Mnangagwa extended condolences to families affected by these tragedies, with Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe echoing this sentiment while expressing sorrow over the extensive destruction of infrastructure caused by these rain-induced incidents.

Minister Garwe advised artisanal miners to halt operations until conditions improve and urged the public to stay safe by avoiding open areas during storms and not attempting to cross flooded rivers. The government, in conjunction with the police and Zimbabwe Defense Forces, is actively engaged in search and rescue operations to aid affected individuals while mobilizing resources for recovery.

Zimbabwe typically experiences its rainy season from October through March, making this period critical for disaster preparedness and response. Continuous rain has emphasized vulnerabilities in infrastructure and raised the profile of the risks faced by the population during extreme weather events.

The intense rainfall in Zimbabwe has led to a tragic loss of life and significant damage to public infrastructure. The government is taking measures to assist affected areas and promote safety during storms. The DCP highlights the importance of community awareness and preparedness to mitigate the impacts of future rainfall-related disasters.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com