HARARE, Jan. 14 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's capital Harare has issued a flood warning, as persistent rains have resulted in several incidents in low-lying suburbs.
Harare's Acting Town Clerk Phakamile Mabhena Moyo said in a statement on Tuesday that the city was receiving daily reports of flash flooding in several suburbs, including Mbare, Highfield, Waterfalls, Warren Park, Budiriro, and Glen Norah.
He urged residents to leave the central business district early, before it gets dark, to avoid flash flooding and worsening traffic congestion due to the heavy rains.
"To avoid congestion due to rain, we encourage motorists to adjust travelling times and leave the central business district early," said Moyo.
He added that the city council is working closely with the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) to closely monitor the situation, and advised residents and property owners in low-lying areas to check weather alerts daily and act accordingly.
According to the DCP, persistent rains across the country have caused damage to public infrastructure, including schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, dams, and irrigation infrastructure, leaving 70 people dead as of Jan. 9.
Zimbabwe typically experiences a rainy season from October to March, characterized by heavy downpours and occasional storms. ■