Torrential rains sweeping across Zimbabwe’s landscape have exacted a grim toll, with at least 118 lives lost and 61 people wounded since the onset of the rainy season, according to the latest report from the country’s Department of Civil Protection on 3 February 2026.
The surge in fatalities, which includes nine new deaths reported over the past week, has been attributed largely to drowning and mine collapses triggered by the persistent downpours. The extreme weather has wrought extensive damage: more than 8,200 households impacted, 334 homes, 236 schools and 15 health facilities destroyed or damaged, and 21 bridges rendered unusable, authorities confirmed.
In addition to human and structural losses, major roads in both urban and rural regions have been severely affected, with several routes now impassable and in urgent need of rehabilitation as communities contend with the mounting aftermath of the heavy rains.