Bulawayo residents face damage as heavy rains bring flooding

The onset of the rainy season has caused widespread damage in Bulawayo, with homes, vehicles, and properties affected by flash floods following three days of heavy downpours. The rains have overwhelmed the city's drainage systems, leading to flooding in several suburbs, particularly in low-lying areas.

The Bulawayo Fire Brigade has already identified 14 flood-prone areas in both the western and eastern suburbs, where emergency responses have been activated. The department has also designated safety zones for affected residents in anticipation of worse weather conditions, with the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) having already warned of thunderstorms, hailstorms, lightning, and gusty winds that could exacerbate the situation.

In Mahatshula North, the Fire Brigade responded to six distress calls on Wednesday, where homes had been submerged in water, causing significant damage to household property. "Our teams responded to calls from Mahatshula North residents whose homes were submerged in water and their household property badly damaged," said Mr. Mhlangano Moyo, the chief fire officer. The Brigade took swift action, opening "weep holes" in the perimeter walls of affected houses to allow water to drain away, a measure that helped alleviate some of the flooding.

However, Mr. Moyo highlighted the challenges posed by residents blocking these weep holes in an attempt to divert water from their yards. "Residents need to work together. A small action like blocking a weep hole can result in significant property damage for others," he urged.

The storm also caused significant damage to property in the city center, with a tree falling on a stationary commuter omnibus taxi parked at the corner of Fort Street and Sixth Avenue. While no injuries were reported, the tree caused extensive damage to the vehicle, and it was only thanks to the quick response of the Bulawayo City Council's parks department that the vehicle was cleared.

In Old Magwegwe, the Fire Brigade was called to a house where the roof had been blown away by the strong winds that accompanied the rains. Thanks to assistance from corporate partners, the damaged roof was swiftly repaired, and the family was able to return to their home.

Suburbs such as Hopeville, Kingsdale, and Queenspark East also reported minor damage from the rains. In Kingsdale, tenants at a cottage expressed relief that the flowing water had not entered the house, despite the yard being flooded. However, other residents, like one in Mahatshula, expressed concern about the safety of their children, fearing they might step on puddles with exposed electrical wires.

To help mitigate the effects of potential flooding, the Fire Brigade has designated safety spots in flood-prone areas across the city. Mr. Moyo advised residents in areas such as Nketa 9, Nketa 6, and Phekiwe River to take heed of the evacuation instructions. Safe locations for these residents include nearby schools, churches, and community centers, such as Nketa SDA Church, Nkulumane Police Station, and Mandwandwe High School.

Additionally, the Fire Brigade has urged residents to be vigilant and avoid crossing flooded streams, rivers, or driving through flooded roads. "We are prepared for worst-case scenarios, but we need residents to cooperate and stay alert to ensure everyone's safety during this rainy season," said Mr. Moyo.

As part of its efforts to educate the public, the Fire Brigade will be conducting an awareness campaign in various suburbs, advising on safety precautions and flood response measures.

The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to report any flooding incidents to ensure timely emergency interventions. With more rainfall expected, the city is bracing for the possibility of more severe weather conditions in the coming weeks.