Hailstorm Wreaks Havoc In Masvingo, Damaging Homes, Cars And Power Infrastructure
A powerful hailstorm swept through Masvingo City and nearby areas, damaging homes, businesses and vehicles and leaving residents facing a costly clean-up.
The storm struck on Monday evening, with strong winds and large hailstones causing widespread destruction across residential areas and the city centre.
Also Read: Tragedy: Grade 3 Student Killed by Hailstorm as Storm Wreaks Havoc in Mberengwa East
Homes And Businesses Damaged
Several houses were left vulnerable after the storm shattered windows and damaged roofs, allowing rainwater to enter the properties.
Businesses were also affected, with furniture outlets and supermarkets among those reporting broken windows. Shattered glass was left scattered along pavements after the storm passed.
A number of vehicles were damaged during the weather event, while trees and electricity infrastructure were also brought down.
Power Outage Hits City
The storm also disrupted electricity supplies in parts of Masvingo after powerlines were brought down.
By about 7pm, when the hailstorm had subsided, residents and business owners were beginning to assess the extent of the destruction.
The scale of the damage prompted the Provincial Civil Protection Unit to activate its disaster response mechanisms to assist affected residents.
Damage Assessment Underway
Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa said authorities were preparing to assess the losses caused by the storm.
“The hailstorm and violent winds shattered windows on both homes and offices and vehicles were also damaged,” he said.
“We will start counting the actual cost of the damage tomorrow morning (today) and we have activated the civil protection unit to assist those in dire straits.”
Authorities are expected to establish the full extent of the damage as assessments continue across the affected areas.
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