A hailstorm struck Masvingo City on Monday, affecting at least 60 households and causing widespread damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, according to statements from local officials. The storm produced hailstones that damaged roofs, windows, and solar panels across several residential neighborhoods.
Masvingo Mayor Aleck Tabe confirmed the preliminary damage reports following the weather event. According to Tabe, the city council has begun assessing the full extent of the impact on residents.
“Several houses had their roofs blown off, while windows, sliding gates, solar panels and other household infrastructure were damaged or destroyed,” Tabe stated.
Initial reports indicate that high-density suburbs were among the areas most affected. The assessment process is ongoing to determine the final number of properties impacted and the total monetary value of the damages incurred by residents.
City officials are compiling information to coordinate a response. In Zimbabwe, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) is the government agency responsible for responding to natural disasters and providing assistance to affected communities. The agency’s involvement in the Masvingo incident has not yet been detailed.
Hailstorms can cause significant structural damage. The impact of solid ice projectiles can puncture roofing materials, shatter glass, and dent vehicles. The destruction of solar panels is a notable loss for households that use them as a primary or secondary source of power.
The Masvingo City Council has indicated it will continue to gather information from the affected areas. No injuries have been reported in connection with the storm. Further updates are expected as damage assessment teams complete their work.
