Image Credits: Zw News

The Meteriological Services Department has revealed that the heavy rains being experienced countrywide has caused damage estimated at $700 000 at Chivhu Prison, 140km south of Harare.

In a statement the MSD said, “The following rainfall amounts were typically from yesterday’s activity: 84mm at Mukandi, 61mm at Mutoko, 44mm (Kezi), 37mm (Buhera), 30mm (Rusape) and 27mm (Mount Darwin) and caused damages to properties across the country.

“Where possible stay indoors and off the roads. If outdoors, seek shelter immediately, but do not seek shelter under a tree or in isolated sheds.

“Avoid crossing flooded rivers and swollen streams where the depth is unknown. In case of severe thunderstorms, it’s best to be indoors.”

The rains have also provided a breeding ground for mosquitoes and cases of malaria may increase.
“Insecticides spraying, applying mosquito repellents, sleeping under mosquito nets are some methods that may avert mosquito bites. For more advice, seek a qualified health professional,’’ read the statement.

There are also reports of communities being marooned and fears of floods as water levels in rivers are swelling.
In a statement to The Herald Mr Nathan Nkomo from the Department of Civil Protection said they were making frantic efforts to ensure that the Chivhu Prison Complex was quickly repaired.

He said heavy rains that pounded Manicaland last week caused serious damage at several schools in Buhera leaving at least two minors injured. The affected schools have since appealed for assistance to repair the damage caused by the hailstorm.
Deputy provincial education director Mrs Clara Kanoerera said at least three schools had been affected.

“In Buhera, we received a report from Kandenga Primary School where a classroom block was damaged by winds. We also received reports at Changamire Primary and Secondary School. At Vhiriri Secondary School, a classroom block was damaged,” she said.

She said two learners at Changamire Primary School were injured by pieces of asbestos and had been admitted to Murambinda Mission Hospital.

Since the beginning of the rainy season, Manicaland had recorded massive damage to infrastructure at various schools and institutions.

Mutare and Mutasa districts have been the worst affected by hailstorms while Chimanimani district has recorded a high number of people struck by lightning. Government has since authourised Mutare City Council to use some of the devolution funds to repair schools.

The Herald