Rumbidzai Mhlanga
The 2024/2025 rainy season is off to a stormy start in Zimbabwe, with the Meteorological Service Department (MSD) issuing warnings for violent storms in several regions. As a result, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has activated its national disaster response systems.
While the initial rains this month are expected to be light, the MSD has projected a normal to above-normal rainfall season for the southern African region. In preparation for the upcoming downpours, the agency has issued a weather alert, cautioning residents of Matabeleland North and the northern parts of the country to be prepared for isolated but intense showers.
According to the MSD, moisture is expected to drift into the northern regions early on Sunday morning, spreading quickly to other parts of the country. On Tuesday, October 15th, these showers are expected to intensify, accompanied by lightning, thunder, and windy conditions.
Additionally, a significant strengthening of relatively cool winds from the south-east coast is anticipated on Tuesday evening. This will bring cloudy, windy, and cool weather to southern regions like Matabeleland South, Masvingo, and Manicaland, with light rain and drizzle possible in some areas.
The weather agency has issued a warning of isolated but intense storms in northern Zimbabwe for the next three days.
“Moisture is expected to drift into the northern parts of the country namely Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West and Mashonaland Central provinces early on Sunday morning, 13 October 2024,” said MSD in its update.
According to the MSD, this should quickly spread into the northern Midlands, Harare and all Mashonaland provinces and “intensify slightly, on Tuesday 15 October 2024, resulting in isolated light showers coupled with lightning and thunder and windy conditions.”
“Anticipate a significant strengthening of relatively cool winds, from the south-east coast of Southern Africa, on Tuesday evening. This should steer a cool and moist south-easterly airflow into Zimbabwe resulting in cloudy, windy and cool weather over Matabeleland South, Masvingo and Manicaland provinces as well as southern part of the Midlands on Wednesday 16 October 2024. Light rain and drizzle is probable in places.”
To ensure safety during the rainy season, the MSD has advised the public to avoid standing under trees or being the tallest object in an open field, as this increases the risk of lightning strikes. Farmers are also encouraged to consult with local agronomists for expert advice on their seasonal farming preparations.
As the rainy season progresses, it is crucial for Zimbabweans to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities from the potential impacts of severe weather.
