The greater part of Bulilima District experienced flash floods following heavy downpours that lasted the whole day yesterday.
Habakkuk Trust staff members who were travelling to Huwana in Bulilima Ward 8 for the 2nd day of the Local Level Advocacy Programme encountered six flooded rivers.
Despite having successfully crossed five of the flooded rivers, the team could not risk crossing Ntoli river which was flooded to the brim and the pillars of the bridge were hardly visible.
A young lady was marooned on the other side of Ntoli river as she could not attempt to cross the flooded river. Some homes along the way were covered in water and most risk being destroyed or swept away as a result of heavy rains.
One of the biggest rivers, Thegwane River, was empty and full of sand when the team crossed but on their way back it had gushes of water and was nearly flooding. The rain was still pounding and gullies were developing in some parts.
A number of school children were observed walking in the rain and some of them having to walk long distances to cross rivers to access education. The exam classes are the worst affected as they do not have a choice but to brave harsh weather conditions to access education.
The Meteorological Services Department has since issued a warning of heavy rains and possible flooding in parts of the Western and Southern parts of Zimbabwe. The department warned people to avoid crossing fast-flowing rivers and flooded streams whether walking or driving.
Habakkuk Trust is encouraging the Civil Protection Unit to be on high alert to avoid unnecessary loss of life and destruction of property.
Source: Habakkuk Trust
