MASVINGO – More than 60 houses have reportedly lost their roofs while vehicles, windows, solar panels and other property were damaged after a hailstorm and heavy rains battered Masvingo on Monday evening.
The storm, which struck shortly after 5pm, also triggered flash flooding in several parts of the city, leaving some families without shelter.
Masvingo mayor Aleck Tabe said the extent of the damage was still being assessed, but preliminary reports indicated significant losses to homes and city infrastructure.
“The extent of the damage is significant and deeply distressing. Most concerning is that several families have been left with their homes exposed to the elements tonight,” Tabe said in a statement.
On this topic
According to the preliminary assessment, more than 60 houses were affected, with roofs blown off and windows and sliding gates damaged or destroyed.
Several vehicles were also damaged, including broken windscreens, while solar panels and other household installations were affected by the storm.
The city has opened Mucheke Hall and Rujeko Hall to accommodate families whose homes were severely damaged.
The facilities will also provide temporary storage for furniture and other belongings as affected households await further assistance.
“Residents whose homes have been severely affected are encouraged to make use of these facilities while further assistance and assessments are being coordinated,” Tabe said.
The Masvingo City Council, working with the Masvingo District Civil Protection Unit, is conducting assessments to establish the full extent of the damage and determine the immediate needs of affected residents.
“Our teams are currently conducting assessments, and further information will be communicated as it becomes available,” Tabe said.
The mayor said the city was engaging relevant stakeholders and emergency response structures to coordinate assistance.
“I wish to assure all residents that the city authorities are seized with this emergency,” he said.
Tabe urged residents to exercise caution and assist vulnerable members of the community, particularly children, older people, people with disabilities and families whose homes were severely damaged.
He said the city would continue providing updates as the damage assessment progresses.
Leave a Reply