By 
Shumirai Nyamadzawo
Two cyclones are likely to hit Zimbabwe during the upcoming rainy season, it has been established.
The government has swiftly moved to mobilise 37 billion for disaster response and management as it emerged that the country could be affected by two tropical cyclones during the 2023-2024 rainy season.
Inclement weather has already affected 5,000 people, with 16 injuries and 13 deaths.
According to the Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum, at least 13 cyclones are expected to hit Southern Africa this season. This is above the average nine cyclones that make landfall every season.
The Department of Civil Protection projects that about 250,000 people are at risk of being affected by adverse weather conditions including tropical cyclones, flash floods, hailstorms, and landslides.
Last year, Southern Africa was affected by 11 cyclones including cyclone Freddy, which left a trail of destruction in Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar.
The DCP said, “The impact of extreme weather conditions is estimated to directly and indirectly affect 250,000 people and their livelihoods, mainly in a landslide and flood-prone areas”.
Flood-prone areas such as Muzarabani, Chimanimani, Chipinge, Mbire, Tsholotsho, Gokwe North, and Middle Sabi are placed under high alert ahead of the commencement of the rainy season.
“It is said flash flooding can happen anywhere in the country depending on the rainfall intensity and conditions on the ground such as the drainage system,” said the department.
The government developed a multi-hazard contingency plan to facilitate rapid response to rain including disasters. It outlines measures to ensure a rapid response that includes disbursements of resources to the district to ensure activation of national and sub-national command Centres for full operation during the season.
The Meteorological Services Department will continue monitoring the season, giving timely forecasts and alerts to the DCP for dissemination to the last mile.
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