61 Dead, Hundreds of Homes Destroyed in Zimbabwe's Festive Season Rains

A total of 61 people have died across Zimbabwe during the festive season, while more than 500 homes and property worth over US$100,000 were destroyed due to persistent and widespread rains. The rainfall-related incidents were recorded between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve, according to a Civil Protection Unit (CPU) report .

The sustained rains triggered flooding, dam spillages, infrastructure damage, and loss of life in several provinces. Zimbabwe traditionally experiences its peak rainfall period between December and February, with low-lying and semi-arid regions particularly prone to flash floods, dam spillages, and river overflows .    Follow & Share Our WhatsApp Channel

The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) indicated that several major dams were full or nearing capacity. As of December 31, Manyuchi, Zhovhe, and Silalabuhwa dams were 100% full, while Tugwi-Mukosi Dam stood at 99.8% capacity. Authorities warned that continued rainfall had resulted in dam spillages and breaches in some districts, posing a serious danger to communities living downstream.

In Matabeleland North Province, a drowning incident was recorded in Nkayi District on Christmas Day. A man in his 30s, identified as Newman Ngwenya, was swept away while attempting to cross the flooded Gampinya Stream. The CPU said the scotch cart and donkeys were also swept away, although two other occupants managed to escape .

Mashonaland West Province recorded several incidents, including damage to dam walls in Hurungwe District where heavy rains caused Dendera Farm Dam and Mushowe Pool Farm Dam to overflow. The spillages affected downstream dams, prompting the District Civil Protection Committee to urge residents living downstream to temporarily relocate to safer areas .

The CPU and other authorities have been working to respond to the incidents and provide relief to affected communities. The estimated cost of repairs and rehabilitation across affected provinces stands at more than US$107,000. Authorities have urged members of the public to exercise caution, heed weather advisories, and avoid crossing flooded rivers and streams as the rainy season continues .