Zimbabweans are preparing for a week of heavy rains and possible floods that could affect thousands of people across the country. The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) issued a warning on Monday, saying that thunderstorms, hailstones, strong winds, and flash floods are expected from Wednesday to Sunday.
The MSD said that all areas of the country are likely to receive localized rainfall amounts of 50mm or more in 24 hours and that low-lying areas such as Muzarabani, Save, and Zambezi Valley are at risk of flooding. It advised people to avoid open fields, hilltops, tall trees, and bodies of water during the storms, and to refrain from crossing flooded rivers.
The warning comes as Zimbabwe is still recovering from the effects of Cyclone Idai, which hit the country in March 2023, killing hundreds of people and displacing thousands more. The cyclone also damaged infrastructure, crops, and livestock, leaving many people in need of humanitarian assistance.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 270,000 people in Zimbabwe were affected by Cyclone Idai, and about 50,000 people are still living in temporary shelters. OCHA said that the humanitarian response is facing funding gaps, especially in the sectors of health, education, protection, and early recovery.
The government of Zimbabwe, in collaboration with humanitarian partners, has been providing relief and recovery support to the affected communities, including food, water, sanitation, health, education, and shelter. However, the MSD warned that the upcoming rains could hamper the ongoing efforts and worsen the situation of the vulnerable people.
The MSD also said that the heavy rains could cause landslides, mudslides, and rock falls in some areas, especially in the Eastern Highlands, where the cyclone caused extensive damage. It urged people to be vigilant and to report any signs of danger to the authorities.
The MSD said that it will continue to monitor the weather situation and provide updates and advisories as necessary. It also encouraged people to follow the official sources of information and to avoid rumors and misinformation.
Zimbabwe is prone to natural disasters such as droughts, floods, and cyclones, which are often exacerbated by the effects of climate change. The country has also been facing economic and political challenges, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 1,800 lives and infected more than 100,000 people.
Despite the multiple crises, Zimbabweans have shown resilience and solidarity in coping with the hardships. Many people have been supporting each other and helping those in need, especially during the cyclone and the pandemic. Some local and international organizations have also been providing assistance and advocacy to the affected communities.
As the country braces for another bout of heavy rains and floods, Zimbabweans hope that the storms will not cause too much damage and disruption and that they will be able to overcome the challenges and rebuild their lives.
Source: Mbare Times
