Truck submerged in Tshangani River after sudden water rise

A truck loading river sand at Tshangani River near Zinyangeni Business Centre in Nkayi District, Matabeleland North, was completely submerged last Friday when water levels unexpectedly surged.

According to a situation report from the Civil Protection Unit (CPU), the truck’s engine failed to start, prompting the driver to seek assistance. By the time he returned, the river had overflowed, leaving only a small part of the truck visible above the water.

"A truck loading river sand in the river was suddenly submerged when the water level rose rapidly. The engine failed to start, prompting the driver to seek help. Upon his return, he found the river had overflowed, but fortunately, no one was trapped inside the submerged vehicle," the CPU reported.

The incident comes amid increasing rainfall-related casualties across the country. The CPU revealed that since the start of the 2024/25 rainy season, Zimbabwe has recorded 28 drowning deaths.

Manicaland Province has recorded the highest number of fatalities at six, followed by Mashonaland Central and Masvingo with four each. Bulawayo and Matabeleland North have each reported two deaths, while Matabeleland South has recorded one fatality. Other provinces have collectively recorded three deaths.

Authorities continue to warn communities about the dangers of crossing or working in rivers during the rainy season, as sudden water surges remain a significant hazard.