Source: ‘Most Zim dams overflowing’ – DailyNews Live
Helen Kadirire o 4 February 2017 11:16AM o 0 comments
HARARE – Zimbabwe’s dam water levels have significantly risen following
incessant massive rains, with most overflowing, the country’s water
authority said.
According to the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa), dams such as
Chivero, Harava, Pollards, Mazvikadei, Bhiri-Manyame, Nyambuya, Upper
Insiza, Mundi-Mataga, Bangala and Woodlands are now more than 100 percent
full.
“The national dam level average is 59,2 percent with Manyame catchment
having a dam level average of 101,2 percent, Gwayi catchment with 101,7
percent, Sanyati catchment with 101,2 percent, Mazowe catchment with 91,8
percent and Mzingwane catchment with 89,6 percent,” the Authority’s
communications manager, Marjorie Munyonga, said.
However, some dams were still running low.
These include Lower Ncema at 22,9 percent, Mutirikwi at 16,7 percent and
the recently completed Tokwe-Mukorsi at 15 percent.
Runde and Save have dam level averages of 28,9 percent and 64,5 percent
respectively.
The Zinwa spokesperson warned that people living downstream from rivers
and dams should be cautious of flooding, and also cautioned farmers to
ensure the safety of any irrigation equipment which may be in rivers.
According to Zinwa, most local authorities now have enough water in their
dams to meet their needs, particularly those in Mashonaland East and
Central which had completely dried up last year.
The rainfall so far this year has improved drinking water stock,
impressively driving away worries.
Harare, which was reeling from poor water supply, has stopped rationing
the precious liquid in most high density suburbs because Chivero, Harava
and Seke dams are now full.
According to Harare City Council spokesperson, Michael Chideme, the city
now has 36 months’ supply of water in storage.
According to the Civil Protection Unit (CPU), people should be on high
alert as floods have been recorded across the country in areas such as
Gokwe, Guruve, Chitungwiza and Mutasa.
The CPU said in an alert yesterday: “Mzingwane River and its tributaries
are flooded. Gold panners and the general public must stay away from this
water course.”
Latest reports from the Meteorological Services Department indicate that
thunderstorms will mainly be expected along the central watershed,
increasing the risk of flooding.
COMMENTS