By Tadiwa ShunjeMASVINGO — About 13 500 households, with an estimated 67 500 people were affected by a hailstorm that hit Masvingo on October 5, 2026 damaging roofs and window panes in several parts of the city.Masvingo Provincial Information Officer Rodgers Irimayi said no deaths had been reported, although assessments were still underway to establish the full extent of the damage.“About 13 500 households have been affected, which translates to approximately 67 500 people. We have not received any reports of deaths at this stage, but assessments are still continuing in the affected areas,” said Irimayi.He said Mucheke, Rujeko and Victoria Range were among the areas that suffered the most damage, with several homes affected by the storm.“The areas that appear to have been most affected include Mucheke, Rujeko and Victoria Range. We have recorded damage to roofs and window panes, and teams are continuing with assessments to establish the extent of the damage,” he said.Irimayi said Government was mobilizing resources to assist families affected by the hailstorm.“Government is mobilizing resources to ensure that assistance reaches the affected families, particularly those whose homes have been severely damaged. The assessments will help us determine the level of assistance required,” he said.Meanwhile, Masvingo City Mayor Aleck Tabe said the city had opened Mucheke and Rujeko halls to provide temporary accommodation and safe storage for affected residents.“As part of the City’s immediate response and mitigation measures, Mucheke Hall and Rujeko Hall have been opened to accommodate affected families and provide temporary safe storage for furniture and other household belongings. Residents whose homes have been severely affected are encouraged to make use of these facilities while further assistance and assessments are being coordinated,” said Tabe.
