As heavy rains continue to lash parts of the country, the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has issued a strong public warning urging residents to take flooding seriously, stressing that no suburb is immune, whether high-density, low-density, peri-urban or industrial.
In a detailed advisory released on Friday, council warned that floods remain one of Zimbabwe’s most common and destructive natural hazards, capable of striking suddenly and with little warning.
Officials cautioned that even areas that appear safe during dry weather, such as small streams, gullies, culverts, dry streambeds and low-lying open ground, can quickly turn deadly once rains intensify.
“Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. Every area is at risk,” the council said.
The local authority urged homeowners and landlords to rethink how they prepare their properties for the rainy season.
“To prepare for flooding, residents should avoid building in floodplains unless homes are properly elevated and reinforced. Furnaces, water heaters and electrical panels should also be elevated if they are susceptible to flooding,” the council said.
Council also encouraged the installation of sewer check valves to prevent floodwater from backing up into homes, the construction of protective barriers such as levees or floodwalls, and sealing basement walls with waterproofing compounds to prevent seepage.
In a practical measure aimed at reducing structural damage, residents were advised to create weepholes around perimeter walls to allow rainwater to flow freely, preventing pooling that can cause durawalls to collapse, a problem reported in several suburbs during previous rainy seasons.
Flood impacts, council said, can be localised, affecting a single neighbourhood, or widespread, impacting entire river basins.
Beyond infrastructure, BCC stressed the importance of preparedness. Residents were urged to save emergency contact numbers on their phones, familiarise themselves with evacuation centres in their areas and stay informed through radio and television updates, especially during periods of persistent rainfall.
“Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions. Be mindful of streams, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly,” the council warned.
Motorists were also cautioned against underestimating floodwaters. According to council guidelines, just 150 millimetres of moving water can knock a person off their feet, while the same depth can cause vehicles to lose control or stall. At 305 millimetres, many cars begin to float, and 610 millimetres of fast-moving water can sweep away even SUVs and pick-up trucks.
“Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your vehicle, abandon it and move to higher ground if it is safe to do so. Both you and the car can be quickly swept away,” BCC said.
For households that may need to evacuate, residents were advised to secure their homes, move essential items to upper floors, bring in outdoor furniture and switch off utilities if instructed. Electrical appliances should never be touched when wet or when standing in water.
“If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Close all windows, lock doors and proceed to designated safe areas where Fire and Emergency Services and other support agencies will provide assistance,” the council said.
The warning did not end when floodwaters recede. Residents were urged to remain cautious, as receding water can conceal weakened roads, unstable foundations and serious health risks. Floodwater may also be contaminated with sewage, fuel or chemicals, or be electrically charged due to damaged power lines.
“Avoid floodwaters as they may be contaminated by oil, fuel or raw sewage. Stay away from downed power lines and report them to authorities. Return home only when officials confirm it is safe,” council said.
Special attention was also drawn to children’s safety during the rainy season. Parents and guardians were urged to escort children to and from school and discourage them from playing or swimming in stagnant or fast-moving water.
“Children should be warned against swimming in pools of water, as muddy conditions increase the risk of drowning,” the council said.
From a public health perspective, residents were advised to wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, discard food contaminated by floodwater, drink safe water, eat well and get enough rest. They were also urged to stay tuned to official updates on whether community water supplies are safe for consumption.
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