Bulawayo Fire Brigade Deploys Emergency Teams Amid Heavy Flooding

Torrential rains across the country have led the Bulawayo Fire Brigade to mobilize emergency teams in several suburbs where overflowing rivers and streams pose significant risks to residents, particularly schoolchildren.

The city has experienced relentless downpours in recent days, leaving emergency services overwhelmed by distress calls from stranded residents. Rising water levels in streams and rivers have created hazardous conditions, prompting urgent intervention.

Tragedy struck on Tuesday when flash floods in the western suburbs claimed the life of three-year-old Sibusiso Methembe Moyo, who was swept away near a storm drain while in the company of his older brother. His body was discovered the following day along a nearby streambank.

Authorities have pointed to unchecked waste disposal and streambank cultivation as contributing factors to flooding in affected areas. Bulawayo’s chief fire officer, Mr. Mhlangano Moyo, stated that emergency services have been inundated with calls, particularly from parents concerned about children crossing flooded waterways. In response, rescue teams were deployed to high-risk locations.

“The city recorded heavy rainfall on Tuesday, and we took proactive measures to station teams at streams and rivers that have historically posed a threat during flooding,” he explained.

One such deployment took place in Pumula South, where a stream separates a school from nearby homes. Many children cross this stream daily, making it especially dangerous when water levels rise.

During a visit to the area, a news crew witnessed schoolchildren navigating a low-lying bridge over the flooded stream. In one instance, an older student carried a younger one on his back as water surged beneath them.

“People underestimate this stream, but it becomes highly dangerous when flooded. We urge parents and guardians to personally collect their children from school during heavy rains,” Mr. Moyo cautioned.

Another emergency team was dispatched to a low-lying bridge along the Phekiwe River on Tuesday after heavy rainfall submerged the area. The bridge is frequently used by children from Rangemore traveling to schools in Nkulumane.

“Phekiwe River separates parts of Nkulumane 12 and Upper Rangemore. It is one of the most flood-prone areas, and our firefighters assisted schoolchildren in crossing safely after intense downpours,” Mr. Moyo noted.

Residents are advised to seek shelter at designated safe locations, including Nkulumane 12 Clinic, Mgombane Primary School, Nkulumane Police Station, and Mandwandwe High School, whenever the Phekiwe River Bridge is flooded.

“To ensure public safety, the Fire Brigade remains proactive, deploying teams to streams and rivers that pose a risk, especially to schoolchildren,” Mr. Moyo emphasized.