HARARE, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- At least 78 people have been killed and 61 others injured as a result of incessant rains across Zimbabwe since the start of the rainy season in October, the country's Department of Civil Protection (DCP) said on Monday.
In its latest situation report, the DCP said the heavy rains have damaged 1,068 homes, 41 schools, five health facilities, and five bridges nationwide.
The department said that major highways have been severely affected, disrupting traffic flow and hampering the movement of people, goods, and essential services. Urban road infrastructure in several parts of the country has also suffered extensive damage, leaving many roads impassable.
According to the DCP, the prolonged rainfall has also led to increased human-wildlife conflict. A dam in Seke District, Mashonaland East Province, has become a danger zone due to a growing number of hippopotamuses, posing a serious threat to nearby communities.
"The local communities have stopped crossing the dam using canoes for their daily activities, which include school attendance, access to market, clinics, and other essential services," the DCP added.
Zimbabwe's rainy season typically runs from October to March, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional storms.
