Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, has issued a citywide flood alert following persistent rainfall that has led to localised flooding in several suburbs and caused widespread disruption. The city’s Acting Town Clerk, Phakamile Mabhena Moyo, announced that authorities were receiving continuous reports of flash flooding across multiple areas, including Mbare, Highfield, Waterfalls, Warren Park, Budiriro, and Glen Norah.
In a public statement, Moyo urged residents and commuters to exercise caution and consider adjusting their travel routines to reduce the risk of being caught in heavy rains or worsening traffic conditions. “We encourage motorists to leave the central business district early to avoid congestion and possible flash flooding,” he said.
The Harare City Council is working in close coordination with the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) to monitor conditions and respond to emerging risks. Residents and property owners in low-lying areas have been advised to stay informed through official weather updates and to take preventive measures where possible.
According to the DCP, prolonged rainfall across Zimbabwe has already caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools, health centres, roads, bridges, dams, and irrigation systems. The department reported that as of 9 January, 70 people had lost their lives as a result of flooding and rain-related incidents across the country.
Zimbabwe typically experiences its rainy season between October and March, a period marked by heavy downpours and intermittent storms. The current rainfall pattern, however, has been notably persistent, heightening concerns about soil saturation and the potential for further flooding.
The DCP has emphasised the importance of local-level preparedness and has encouraged communities to collaborate with municipal authorities to mitigate the impact of severe weather events. This approach reflects a broader understanding within southern Africa that climate-related challenges require coordinated community responses, as well as investment in resilient infrastructure and urban planning.
The ongoing rains also underscore the vulnerabilities of urban settlements across the region, particularly in densely populated or informal areas where drainage systems are inadequate. Harare’s experience mirrors that of other African cities confronting the dual pressures of climate variability and rapid urbanisation. Addressing these challenges requires sustained engagement between citizens, local governments, and regional institutions committed to strengthening disaster preparedness and urban resilience.
