Story by Fungai Jachi
AT least three people have died in Chiredzi District as persistent rains and overflowing rivers disrupt lives and isolate communities, officials have confirmed.
Chiredzi South has been cut off from essential services, including referral hospitals, banks, and government offices, as rivers swollen by heavy rainfall and the controlled release of water from full-capacity dams, such as Lake Mutirikwi, inundate the area.
Chiredzi District Development Coordinator, Mr Lovemore Chisema, said the affected areas are largely inaccessible by road, prompting emergency measures to safeguard residents and deliver food and non-food assistance.
“As the rains continue, Chiredzi is not spared from the floods, especially in Chiredzi South. Most of the water bodies we have are now full and with the release of water from these dams, it is going into rivers which are also full so communities downstream South are facing challenges of floods. Three people have died, two were struck by lightning and one child drowned in a deep pit.
We urge people to remain vigilant and not cross flooded rivers to avoid loss of lives. It is unfortunate that the areas are not accessible and have been cut off from services they might want from this end. We are trying to find ways of getting them food and non-food items. The situation is being closely monitored, and we hope that there will be a lasting solution soon,” Mr Chisema said.
The ongoing rains have left at least 40 families homeless, with their homes damaged by flash floods. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are coordinating relief efforts with local stakeholders.
The Lowveld remains at risk as water levels in rivers and dams continue to rise, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness and disaster response measures in flood-prone areas.
