Zimbabwe Declares State Of Disaster

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster in areas affected by a severe hailstorm that damaged more than 17,000 buildings in the southern province of Masvingo.

The storm, which struck on Monday evening, completely blew off the roofs of more than 8,500 houses, according to the government.

“Following the catastrophic and severe hailstorm that struck Masvingo province on the evening of Monday, October 5, 2026, President Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster within the affected areas,” Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said in a statement.

Garwe said the extreme weather caused extensive structural damage to residential areas, public utilities, schools, health facilities and commercial establishments, requiring immediate intervention to protect lives and support recovery.

Business activities in Masvingo city were also heavily disrupted by the storm, which caused a widespread power blackout.

Several education centres, medical facilities and hospitality premises sustained severe roof damage, resulting in water leaks and structural problems.

The government said no fatalities had been recorded as of Tuesday, while the number of people injured was still being assessed.

SOURCE: TRT Afrika