Harare, (New Ziana) – The City of Mutare said on Tuesday it has set up two evacuation centres for residents who might be affected by Cyclone Chalane which is expected to hit Zimbabwe this week.

Chalane, which originated in the Indian Ocean, hit Madagascar last week and is now expected in Mozambique, before moving to Zimbabwe, anytime from Wednesday.

The Meteorological Services Department has warned of possible flash floods in the eastern highlands, which is expected to receive heavy rainfalls of more than 50 millimetres in 24 hours.

“People in low lying areas in Mutare such as Zimta, Bernwin and those living in temporary accommodation such as Federation and Gimboki are being advised to find alternative accommodation before the disaster strikes,” the City said in a statement.

Mutare City, the country’s third largest, with a population of close to 200 000, said two evacuation centres had been set up at Dangamvura and Sakubva Beit Halls.

In Chimanimani, which is expected to be hit first unless the cyclone changes its path, the government has already begun evacuating residents after availing transport and temporary accommodation at schools in the district.

If the cyclone hits Chimanimani, this will be the second time the area would have been affected by a cyclone in 21 months, after Cyclone Idai left a trail of death, destruction and displacement of people in March 2019.
New Ziana