Storms in Manica kill one, and destroy 50 houses

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Storms in Manica kill one, and destroy 50 houses

1:56 CAT | 31 Dec 2021

Image: World Vision (for illustration purpose only)

Torrential rains and high winds killed at least one person and destroyed over 50 houses over the weekend, in the central Mozambican province of Manica.

The rains also destroyed classrooms and other social and economic facilities in the districts of Macate, Sussundenga, Gondola, and Macossa, as well as in the provincial capital, Chimoio,

The head of the technical department of the provincial branch of the National Disaster Management Institute (INGD), Vernito Gonda, said that the storm had deprived around 270 people of their homes.

“Following the bad weather, we have families living in the open”, he said. “We are working to minimise the suffering of the families who have lost part of their property”.

The INGD, he added, has made relief kits available for the storm victims. “We have identified the families”, said Gonga, “and based on the survey we undertook, those eligible are receiving our support in food aid and hygiene items. We have also delivered tents to shelter those families who became homeless. The work is intended to create minimum living conditions, and alleviate the suffering of those affected”.

In order to avoid further loss of life and damage to property Gonga said the INGD is monitoring the levels of the rivers that cross Manica – particularly the Zambezi, the Pungue, the Buzi and the Revue.

During the rainy season, these rivers frequently burst their banks, leading to floods in parts of the province.

“We have also re-activated some local emergency committees, which are working to raise the awareness of the public about precautionary measures that should be taken to avoid deaths and further damage”, said Gonga. “In some regions, boats have been positioned, for use in search and rescue missions”.

He added that the local population in the affected areas, are mostly accepting the recommendations to leave flood-prone areas, although some individuals are reluctant to do so.

Source: AIM