More than 80 killed following heavy rains in Zimbabwe

Heavy rains in Zimbabwe over the past several weeks have killed at least 83 people and destroyed more than 1,300 homes, authorities say.

Torrential rains have affected several provinces, with Manicaland, near the Mozambique border, among the worst hit.

Bridges have been washed away, roads damaged, and thousands of homes submerged.

Officials say some fatalities involved artisanal miners whose pits were flooded, while others drowned crossing flooded rivers or were struck by lightning.

Working with the Civil Protection Department, the Red Cross Society of Zimbabwe has focused on assisting displaced families.

"We have placed response teams on high alert and repositioned emergency supplies such as tents, blankets, hygiene kits, and first-aid materials," said Mathias Begede, programs director at the Red Cross.

Authorities report that conditions are improving in some areas, but the Civil Protection Department remains vigilant.

Relief operations are ongoing, with humanitarian agencies working to provide shelter, food and medical aid to affected communities while trying to prevent further casualties.