Heavy rains affects sale of Valentine flowers in Bulawayo

Heavy rains that lasted close to an hour in Bulawayo Tuesday morning "severely" affected business particularly for florist at City Hall.

The florist had hoped to cash in on Valentine's Day with lovers buying roses for their loved ones.

But the rains had the final say-though temporarily.

Roses are ranging from $1 to as high as $50 depending on the type.

"Business was above average before the rains came but when it poured customers stayed away" said Douglas Nxumalo.

Nxumalo said he had racked in a cool $85 before it rained around 11am.

His counterpart, Grace Ncube said she had sold roses worth $60.

"The rains are good but they tend to affect our business since we have no proper structures here. However, we hope move lovers would pass by and buy more" said Ncube.

However, some brave lovers under umbrellas still flocked to the City Hall.

But when the rains did stop though still drizzling by lunch time, the florist where seen busy scrambling for customers.

Even students mainly from private colleges thronged the City Hall to get a rose.

Restaurants are hoping to also cash in by offering special meals for lovers.

Night Clubs have  also lined up  a range of entertainment in the evening.