86 drown, 38 killed by lightning in 3 months
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POLICE say at least 86 people have drowned and 38 others killed by lightning since the onset of the rainy season in September last year. Figures released by the ZRP on Monday showed Manicaland had the highest number of deaths from drowning – 18 – followed by Masvingo with 13 deaths. At least 12 people died after being struck by lightning in Masvingo, one more than the Midlands which accounted for 11 deaths.
Bulawayo recorded the lowest number of deaths from drowning with one case reported – that of a Grade Seven pupil at Hugh Beadle Primary School who was swept away by the Mazayi River on her way back from school on January 15. Forecasters are warning that low-lying areas are at a risk of flooding as the rains continue to pound the country, including the parched Matabeleland provinces which have seen non-stop rains for nearly a week. National police spokesman Superintendent Andrew Phiri said: “Members of public must desist from crossing flooded rivers whether on foot or in vehicles as vehicles are also in danger of stalling in the middle of rivers resulting in the death of passengers.” The Civil Protection Unit has warned of a flooding crisis in Beitbridge after heavy rains saw the border post temporarily closed at 3AM on Sunday when the Limpopo River’s tide reached bridge level. Three people have died in Beitbridge from drowning, while over 50 homes are said to have been destroyed in the area. |
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