Zimbabwe braces for heavy rains, flooding

Zimbabwe is bracing for heavy rainfall in the coming days, with northern and eastern regions expected to bear the brunt, according to a recent update from the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (Fews Net).

The report highlights that a strengthening weather system over southern Africa will bring significant downpours to northern and eastern Zimbabwe, as well as central and northern Angola, central and eastern Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, northeastern South Africa, Eswatini, and northern Madagascar.

"Next week, heavy rainfall is predicted over northern and eastern southern Africa," the report stated, warning that these conditions could increase the risk of localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and communities near rivers.

Fews Net noted that while northern Zimbabwe has experienced below-average rainfall over the past month, central and southern regions have seen above-average precipitation, which has improved soil moisture levels.

The forecast comes as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather. In January, rains across Zimbabwe claimed 123 lives and affected more than 250,000 people, displacing over 1,300 families. Infrastructure suffered heavily, with 211 bridges, over 200 schools, and 15 health facilities damaged or destroyed.

The recent floods also raised public health concerns, including cholera outbreaks in neighbouring Zambia and Mozambique. Authorities and communities are being urged to prepare for potential flooding and take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.