Story by Peter Chivhima
The Civil Protection Department has started mobilising resources that will be used as part of a response strategy to torrential rains expected to hit the country beginning this Friday.
On Wednesday, the Civil Protection Department warned of possible torrential rains from Friday to Sunday across the country.
In an interview with the ZBC News this Thursday, Civil Protection Department Acting Chief Director, Mr Nathan Nkomo revealed modalities to deal with any eventualities.
“From the information we have, we want to warn all communities to be on high alert. Firstly, I want to commend the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services for the active role they played since we gave our alert yesterday. The information is now in all corners.
“In terms of resources mobilisation, we have already submitted a request to the Ministry of Finance for assistance. So far, we have enough fuel to cover areas which were placed on high alert. Departments which deal directly in disaster management such as the Sub Aqua Unit can draw fuel direct from our department. In Chipinge, we have constructed two evacuation centres in case of a disaster. In other areas, we have traditional infrastructure that we normally use such as churches and schools, we have since engaged them to assist in case of any emergency,” he said.
Mr Nkomo also warned those staying in urban areas to be on high alert as they are not immune to the disaster.
Meteorological Services Department Head of Public Weather Services, Mr James Ngoma says they will keep the nation updated on any developments.
Mr Ngoma noted, “We keep the nation updated. We are working with various departments so that we inform the nation accordingly.”
In a statement, the Department of Civil Protection warned of heavy rains of more than 65mm in 24 hours in all Mashonaland, Manicaland, parts of the Midlands and Masvingo provinces, with the citizens implored to be on high alert.
