The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) of Zimbabwe has fully transitioned to digital weather monitoring equipment, replacing mercury-based instruments in compliance with the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
According to the MSD’s Head of Public Weather Services, all weather stations across the country are now equipped with digital and automatic weather stations, enabling real-time weather monitoring from remote locations. The new technology provides continuous rainfall measurement, wind speed and direction, air pressure, and temperature readings.
“With these upgrades, we can monitor weather conditions from any station in Zimbabwe, including Victoria Falls, Nyanga, and Chimanimani, at the click of a button,” the official said.
The Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty adopted in 2013, seeks to eliminate mercury pollution due to its severe health and environmental risks. Mercury exposure can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and immune system, posing significant dangers, especially to children and pregnant women.
By phasing out mercury-based thermometers and barometers, Zimbabwe is taking a crucial step in protecting public health and the environment.
