The Meteorological Services Department anticipates widespread heavy rainfall across the country in the next seven days, starting today and extending until Wednesday next week. This weather pattern is a result of the combination of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone with a cloud band moving in from the west.
According to James Ngoma, the Chief Forecaster at the Met Department, regions along the main watershed and specific areas such as Zvishavane, Shurugwi, Kwekwe, Kadoma, Chirumhanzu, Mberengwa in Midlands, and Chivi and Gutu in Masvingo province can expect downpours exceeding 50mm.
In the western regions, including Bulawayo, Matobo, Umzingwane, Insiza, and parts of Mangwe in Matabeleland South, as well as Umguza and Bubi in Matabeleland North, heavy rain is also anticipated.
Ngoma highlighted the movement of cloud formations from the west, particularly in Matabeleland South, drifting towards Zvishavane. Thunder showers are expected in Zvishavane, intensifying as the weekend approaches.
He urged the public to exercise caution during thunderstorms, emphasizing the potential for localized flooding downstream even if rainfall hasn’t reached one’s immediate area. Ngoma cautioned against attempting to cross flooded rivers, citing the risk of swift water currents, even with just 30cm of flow, which can pose a danger to large vehicles.
While other areas are expected to experience heavy rains, the recorded precipitation is forecasted to be below 50mm. The Met Department warned of lightning, hail storms, and the possibility of flash floods, insecure roofs being blown off, and trees falling in strong winds associated with the heavy rainfall. The overall weather conditions are attributed to the collaboration of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone and a cloud band from the western parts of the country.
