Cyclone Freddy-induced rains cause landslides in Manicaland, roads blocked

Image: InfoMinZw

Some parts of Manicaland Province, including Nyanga, Mutare urban, Chimanimani, and Chipinge, received heavy rains and winds from Sunday evening up to Monday.

This resulted in landslides, road blockages and damage to some infrastructure such as houses and schools.

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) on Monday said Nyanga received 102mm, Mukandi 97mm, and Chisengu 83mm of rainfall.

The department said the thunderstorms and rain were caused by moisture coming from the now decaying former Tropical Cyclone Freddy and relief rainfall caused by the mountainous area.

According to The Herald, the situation was very bad in Nyanga where a landslide blocked traffic on Troutbeck Road.

Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Manicaland Province, Edgars Seenza, said by late Monday night, excavators were on the ground to clear the debris.

“I have received a report of a landslide along Troutbeck Road in Nyanga, blocking the road.

“We have been advised that appropriate equipment has been taken to the site to clear the mud and trees on the ground so that traffic can start to pass.

“I also heard that crops were affected by heavy winds in Chipinge District. A detailed report will be available tomorrow (today),” he said.

Assistant District Development Committee for Nyanga Lloyd Kasima said:

“It’s still raining as I talk to you. Crops have been brought down in some areas and there is a landslide close to Troutbeck Hotel and a TLB is clearing the road. Buses and other vehicles could not pass.

“Almost five households and teachers’ houses at two schools had roofs blown off by the winds.”