MASVINGO City Council has opened temporary emergency accommodation for families affected by heavy rains that lashed the city yesterday evening, prompting urgent humanitarian action.
The rains, coupled with strong winds and hail, caused widespread destruction, with many families waking up this morning to count their losses.
Rooftops of homes and churches were blown off, security walls collapsed and vegetation was destroyed, leaving florists and residents with heavy losses.
Mayor Councillor Aleck Tabe addressed the city in an urgent update, describing the storm’s impact as extensive and deeply distressing.
In a swift move to protect the most vulnerable families whose homes were severely damaged or left exposed, Council has opened two key community facilities.
Mucheke Hall and Rujeko Hall have been designated as temporary emergency shelters.
Mayor Tabe encouraged residents to use the halls not only for personal accommodation but also for the safe, temporary storage of furniture and household belongings while assessments continue.
City engineering and emergency teams have been deployed to assess the full extent of the damage. Local authorities have also activated the District Civil Protection Unit (DCPU) and are working with relevant stakeholders and emergency response structures to coordinate recovery efforts.
Preliminary reports paint a grim picture of the trail of destruction left by the large hailstones. Multiple homes had entire roofs blown off, numerous cars suffered shattered windscreens, solar panels were broken and windows and sliding gates were destroyed.
“The extent of the damage is significant and deeply distressing. Most concerning is that several families have been left with their homes exposed to the elements tonight,” Mayor Tabe said.
He appealed for calm and community solidarity, urging residents to assist one another, particularly children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.
“Our thoughts are with every family and individual affected by this devastating disaster. We stand together as a city during this difficult time,” the Mayor said.
He said Council will provide regular updates as the formal damage assessment progresses and broader relief and reconstruction efforts are finalised.
