Staff Reporter
Kwekwe District’s Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has issued a public advisory urging residents to prepare for potential rain-induced disasters as the country braces for heavy thunderstorms, as forecasted by meteorologists. The District CPU Chairperson, Fortune Mupungu, cautioned all residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to minimize risks during the extreme weather conditions.
“The Kwekwe District Civil Protection Unit wishes to advise communities to stay alert as Zimbabwe braces for possible heavy thunderstorms, as predicted by weather experts. We urge all residents to take precautionary measures during this predicted extreme weather event,” Mupungu said.
Mupungu issued key directives to address specific dangers anticipated during this period.
“School children and motorists alike are advised not to cross flooded rivers at all costs,” Mupungu warned. He called on the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to ensure that all schools in the district communicate this safety message.
Addressing the frequent incidents of drowning, Mupungu advised, “Parents and teachers are urged to caution children against swimming in stagnant pools and rivers.” He added that crocodile attacks are common during this time of year and pose a severe risk.
School Development Committees have been instructed to inspect and repair school buildings to safeguard against structural damage from potential storms.
Mupungu highlighted the need for extra caution among miners, particularly when soils are heavily soaked. “Miners are urged to avoid working underground when the soils are saturated to prevent entrapment due to possible mine collapses. Mine managers must maintain a database of all miners at their respective mines,” he said.
People living near river banks and low-lying areas have been advised to prepare for possible evacuations. Mupungu directed councilors in vulnerable areas to identify potential evacuation centers, stating, “All councilors are hereby directed to identify evacuation centers/buildings in their respective wards.”
Motorists are encouraged to take additional precautions. “Avoid parking vehicles under large trees, and reduce speed when visibility is poor,” Mupungu advised.
Local authorities have been instructed to clear drainage systems to prevent flooding. Mupungu commended Kwekwe City for already taking action in this area.
Residents are advised to remain indoors during lightning and thunderstorms. “Communities are urged to stay indoors whenever there is lightning and thunder,” Mupungu stated, underscoring the importance of avoiding outdoor exposure during electrical storms.
The CPU Chairperson also reminded residents that assistance is available should emergencies arise. “In case of an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact any member of the district civil protection unit,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of collective disaster risk reduction.
“Stay safe, stay alert,” Mupungu urged. “Disaster risk reduction measures start with me, they start with you, they start with all of us.”
