News / National
Bulawayo fire brigade responds to devastating rains and strong winds
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The Bulawayo Fire Brigade has assured residents that they were prepared for the recent heavy rains and strong winds that caused significant damage to properties across the city.
Bulawayo City Council's acting chief fire officer, Mhlangano Moyo, told Southern Eye that the destruction, which affected areas such as Harrisvale, Richmond, Trenance, and Ntabeni Primary School in Entumbane, was anticipated based on weather forecasts predicting normal to above-normal rainfall patterns.
"We had planned for the worst-case scenario after being informed that the rainfall pattern would be normal to above normal," Moyo said.
Despite their preparedness, the rains and strong winds left a trail of destruction, with approximately 10 properties damaged during the previous season.
In Sizinda, 25 families were left vulnerable after the winds blew away rooftops from their homes.
"The winds followed a pattern from Richmond to Ntabeni Primary School in Entumbane to Sizinda, including these other areas," Moyo explained.
The Bulawayo Fire Brigade is collaborating with the Civil Protection Department and other organizations to assist affected families. So far, 50 blankets have been sourced for distribution, and efforts are ongoing to provide further support.
Residents of Sizinda Flats were among the hardest hit, with many left homeless as heavy rains overwhelmed the city. Harrisvale and Richmond suburbs also reported significant damage, including the destruction of two houses, while Romney Park experienced severe flooding.
Families in Sizinda are urgently appealing for food, clothing, and blankets as they rebuild their lives. Initial estimates put the damage caused by the heavy rains and strong winds at approximately ZWL$200,000.
The Bulawayo Fire Brigade has vowed to continue working closely with relevant authorities to provide relief and mitigate the effects of future disasters. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any emergencies promptly to ensure swift responses.
Bulawayo City Council's acting chief fire officer, Mhlangano Moyo, told Southern Eye that the destruction, which affected areas such as Harrisvale, Richmond, Trenance, and Ntabeni Primary School in Entumbane, was anticipated based on weather forecasts predicting normal to above-normal rainfall patterns.
"We had planned for the worst-case scenario after being informed that the rainfall pattern would be normal to above normal," Moyo said.
Despite their preparedness, the rains and strong winds left a trail of destruction, with approximately 10 properties damaged during the previous season.
In Sizinda, 25 families were left vulnerable after the winds blew away rooftops from their homes.
The Bulawayo Fire Brigade is collaborating with the Civil Protection Department and other organizations to assist affected families. So far, 50 blankets have been sourced for distribution, and efforts are ongoing to provide further support.
Residents of Sizinda Flats were among the hardest hit, with many left homeless as heavy rains overwhelmed the city. Harrisvale and Richmond suburbs also reported significant damage, including the destruction of two houses, while Romney Park experienced severe flooding.
Families in Sizinda are urgently appealing for food, clothing, and blankets as they rebuild their lives. Initial estimates put the damage caused by the heavy rains and strong winds at approximately ZWL$200,000.
The Bulawayo Fire Brigade has vowed to continue working closely with relevant authorities to provide relief and mitigate the effects of future disasters. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any emergencies promptly to ensure swift responses.
Source - newsday
