Heavy rains kill 50 across Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has experienced a devastating start to the 2025/26 rainfall season, with at least 50 people reported dead and extensive damage to homes, schools, and health facilities. According to the Department of Civil Protection Unit (CPU), the storms, hail, lightning, and strong winds have destroyed 22 schools, two health facilities, and 452 homesteads across the country.

Manicaland province recorded the highest number of fatalities at 23, while Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces each reported 12 deaths. Among the affected homesteads, Mashonaland East accounted for 127, Mashonaland Central 97, and Matabeleland North and South 15 and nine respectively.

The CPU described a series of destructive weather events, including a heavy storm that struck Wards 2 and 3 in Shamva District on December 7, damaging homes, schools, and critical infrastructure. Centre Zimbabwe Africa High School suffered severe damage, with the roof of a double-storey classroom block blown off, windows shattered, and ceiling materials destroyed. Two children in Ward 5 were hospitalized after a building collapsed on them, while 18 houses, along with toilets, kitchens, fowl runs, and churches, were destroyed. The storms have also disrupted livelihoods, destroying livestock, maize, and tobacco crops, which are vital for household income and food security.

In Mangwe District, Matabeleland South, a hailstorm destroyed two classroom blocks at Valukhalo Secondary School, though no injuries were reported. In Mhondoro-Ngezi District, heavy rains on December 2 damaged homes and possessions in Wards 6, 7, 14, and 16, affecting 51 families. Many lost food reserves, clothing, and important documents.

The CPU is appealing for urgent assistance, including tents, food, and fuel, to help affected families and support further assessments. Authorities also continue to offer counselling services to those affected. The department warned that Zimbabwe has faced intense rainfall across multiple provinces, urging communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with disaster response efforts to mitigate further loss of life and property.