By Staff Reporter
A severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Masvingo urban after a violent hailstorm struck the city on Monday night, leaving more than 13,500 households critically affected and exposed to harsh weather.
The sudden storm, marked by torrential rain, gale-force winds, and massive hailstones, caused widespread destruction across residential areas, public facilities, and essential infrastructure. Thousands of families spent a freezing, wet night without shelter after their roofs were blown off, walls collapsed, and windows shattered.
Preliminary reports confirm that the devastation extends beyond homes to key community infrastructure. Schools, government offices, health clinics, and business centers all sustained major damage, disrupting crucial municipal services. Power lines and telecommunications cables were brought down by falling trees, resulting in city-wide outages and complicating night-time emergency efforts.
In response, Masvingo City Council has opened Mucheke and Rujeko community halls as temporary emergency shelters for those displaced. Mayor Aleck Tabe described the scale of destruction as deeply distressing and assured residents that city officials are fully mobilized to coordinate relief and recovery operations.
Ezra Chadzamira, Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, stated that the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has begun comprehensive damage assessments to identify urgent needs. Relief agencies are mobilizing supplies such as tarpaulins, food baskets, and medical kits to support affected households.
With meteorologists warning of continued weather instability as the rainy season continues, authorities are urging everyone to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and assist neighbors as recovery efforts progress.
