Duduzile Nyathi
Zimbabweans must prepare for a warmer day followed by a cooler Thursday, according to the latest forecast from the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe (MSD).
The weather update, released on May 20, highlights a noticeable temperature shift across the region, with specific advice for locals to stay prepared during this dry season transition.
The MSD’s forecast paints a clear picture for Bulawayo and Matabeleland South, predicting a warmer Wednesday with partly cloudy and windy conditions. “It should be partly cloudy and windy in Masvingo, southern parts of Midlands, and Matabeleland South on Wednesday,” the department stated in its report, noting that these areas, including Bulawayo, will experience a rise in daytime temperatures. This aligns with typical May weather in Zimbabwe’s dry season, where daytime highs in Bulawayo often reach around 25°C, according to historical climate data from Weather Spark.
However, the MSD cautioned that mornings and evenings will remain chilly, a common feature of the dry season from April to October, with nights sometimes dipping as low as 5°C.
The weather is set to shift on Thursday, May 22, as cooler conditions move in. The MSD forecasts cloudy, windy, and cold weather across Matabeleland South, with Bulawayo also feeling the chill. “Expect cloudy, windy, and cold conditions in the morning in Matabeleland South, Masvingo, and Manicaland on Thursday,” the department noted. This temperature drop will also affect other regions, with Masvingo and Manicaland joining Matabeleland South in experiencing the colder weather, while the southern parts of Midlands are expected to feel the lingering effects of Wednesday’s warmth before cooling down.
In its accompanying X post, the MSD summarized the outlook with a concise message: “Warmer Wednesday, Cooler Thursday. #keepwarm.” The department provided actionable advice for residents in Bulawayo, Matabeleland South, and beyond to navigate the changing conditions. “Be warm early morning and late afternoon,” the report urged, emphasizing the need to dress warmly during the colder parts of the day. The MSD also advised taking broader precautions: “Prepare frost mitigation measures where applicable,” particularly for farmers in Matabeleland South who may face frost risks during the chilly nights. Additionally, the department stressed fire safety, recommending that residents “practice fire safety and mitigation measures” to reduce the risk of wildfires, a common concern during the dry season when dry vegetation can easily ignite.
This forecast is particularly significant for Bulawayo and Matabeleland South, where weather variability can impact daily life and agriculture. The dry season’s cooler temperatures and low humidity, while ideal for wildlife viewing in nearby areas like Hwange National Park, often pose challenges for farmers and households. The MSD’s updates are a vital resource for communities in these regions, helping them plan for temperature swings that can affect crops, livestock, and personal comfort.
As Zimbabwe braces for a warmer Wednesday followed by a cooler Thursday, the MSD’s advice offers a practical guide for staying safe and comfortable. Whether it’s layering up for the chilly mornings or ensuring fire safety measures are in place, residents across Zimbabwe are encouraged to heed the department’s warnings and prepare for the shifting weather patterns this week.
