Severe flooding cuts off Gwanda, Blanket Mine, and Maphisa access

Mtshabezi Bridge along Blanket Mine Road has been rendered impassable due to heavy flooding, severing access between Gwanda town, Blanket Mine, and the Maphisa area. The rising waters have destroyed a low-lying makeshift bridge and another temporary crossing near the Hamden Plots prison camp. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage.

Civil Protection teams and disaster management officials are on the ground. Awakhiwe Moyo warned residents, motorists, and pedestrians against attempting to cross the flooded bridge. “Mtshabezi Bridge along Blanket Mine Road is severely flooded, with water levels higher than ever seen. The makeshift road has been destroyed. We strongly warn motorists, pedestrians, and all residents not to attempt to cross or approach the bridge,” he said.

Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has issued a broader warning to communities in and around Gwanda, noting that major dams in the Mzingwane Catchment, including Mtshabezi, Tuli, and Shashe, are spilling, with Insiza Dam expected to start overflowing if rain continues.

Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant, secure all water abstraction equipment along rivers, and avoid crossing flooded channels. ZINWA confirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as developments occur.