Zimbabwe Red Cross on High Alert as Flood Risks Escalate

Zimbabwe Red Cross (image source)

The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) has stepped up its emergency preparedness as heavy rains continue to batter most provinces, raising fears of widespread flooding. The humanitarian organisation confirmed that national response teams have been activated and flood mitigation materials pre-positioned across the country to ensure swift intervention should disaster strike.

ZRCS secretary-general Elias Hwenga (image source)

ZRCS secretary-general Elias Hwenga said the organisation was working in close coordination with the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) and the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) to monitor the evolving weather situation. “We have activated our response teams and materials are pre-positioned across the country to ensure that we can respond swiftly and effectively to flood-related emergencies,” Hwenga explained. The MSD has forecast continued heavy rainfall across all provinces, warning of flash floods, riverine flooding and waterlogging in vulnerable communities. Civil Protection authorities have echoed these concerns, noting that saturated soils and rising river levels could trigger localised flooding in the coming days.

According to official DCP data, the rainy season has already claimed 74 lives since October 2025, with infrastructure damage surpassing US$107,000. Most fatalities have been attributed to drowning incidents, as pedestrians and motorists attempted to cross flooded rivers. Manicaland province has recorded the highest number of deaths at 32, followed by Mashonaland West with 19 and Midlands with 13.

Hwenga emphasised that vulnerable communities, particularly those living near rivers, dams and low-lying areas, face heightened risks. “The heavy rains we are seeing across the country present a real threat of flooding and we urge communities in high-risk areas to remain alert, avoid crossing flooded rivers, and follow guidance from local authorities,” he said.  ZRCS has pledged to provide humanitarian assistance where needed, including early warning messages, first aid, temporary shelter and relief supplies. The organisation also highlighted the importance of community awareness campaigns to minimise loss of life and property.

International humanitarian networks have noted Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters, with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies categorising the current floods as a “yellow disaster” requiring heightened monitoring. As the rainy season progresses, ZRCS said it will continue to issue updates and coordinate with government agencies to mitigate the impact of floods. The organisation urged citizens to remain vigilant and prioritise safety over mobility during severe weather events.