Storm leaves 5 families homeless in Gwanda

A violent storm that lashed Gwanda Urban on Wednesday night has left five families homeless and caused significant damage to infrastructure at Senondo Primary School, local authorities confirmed yesterday.

The storm, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain, ripped rooftops off homes and school buildings, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Civil Protection Committee has since stepped in to provide emergency relief and coordinate temporary shelter for the affected families.

Gwanda District disaster risk reduction focal person, Awakhiwe Moyo, said the storm struck on 5 November, prompting an immediate assessment by local authorities working with councillors, the mayor's office, and ward disaster structures.

"On the evening of 5 November, the office received reports that the rains had left a trail of destruction in Gwanda Urban and preliminary assessments were done immediately," Moyo said. "Working with councillors, the mayor and chairpersons of disaster management structures, we assessed the damage."

He said five families were left totally homeless after their roofs were blown off, with most of their household property soaked and destroyed by rainwater. However, all affected families managed to secure temporary accommodation for the night.

Moyo added that Gwanda-Tshitaudze Member of Parliament, Fisani Moyo, had pledged assistance to the displaced households, including help with shelter materials and groceries.

A comprehensive technical report detailing the full extent of the damage and the costs of repairs is still being compiled, Moyo said.

At Senondo Primary School, several classrooms had their roofs, doors, and windows damaged, disrupting learning and exposing pupils to unsafe conditions.

No injuries or loss of life were reported.

Moyo appealed to the local business community, residents, and well-wishers to assist both the affected families and the school.

"Those who can help, please come forward so that these families can recover," he said.

The storm marks one of the first major weather-related incidents of the rainy season, highlighting ongoing concerns about disaster preparedness and climate resilience in Matabeleland South Province.