The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has emphasized a proactive approach to disaster preparedness, highlighting its shift towards impact-based forecasting to enhance public awareness and response to extreme weather conditions.
Speaking on the country’s readiness for climate-related disasters such as droughts and cyclones, MSD official James Ngoma underscored the importance of a coordinated, whole-of-government approach that involves both authorities and the general public.
“Preparedness happens long before a disaster strikes,” Ngoma said, noting that the department has moved away from lengthy text-based warnings to more visually engaging, color-coded messages that improve comprehension and response.
The department has collaborated with the Civil Protection Unit to assess potential impacts of extreme weather conditions such as heavy rains, strong winds, and droughts in different regions. This partnership enables districts to develop tailored disaster preparedness plans that account for varying climatic conditions.
“In districts such as Manicaland and parts of Masvingo, plans are in place down to village level, ensuring localized responses to disasters,” Ngoma said. He added that these measures are being expanded to other provinces that have experienced significant weather-related challenges.
The MSD’s approach also recognizes that different regions face distinct challenges, requiring customized contingency plans. “For example, a district in Manicaland may experience heavy rainfall while another in Masvingo deals with prolonged dry spells. Each area must prepare accordingly,” he explained.
Since 2000, Zimbabwe has faced numerous weather-induced disasters, including severe droughts, devastating cyclones, and widespread flooding. Cyclone Eline (2000) and Cyclone Idai (2019) caused massive destruction, with Idai leaving over 340 dead and displacing thousands. Prolonged droughts in 2002, 2008-2009, 2019-2020, and the ongoing 2023-2024 El Niño crisis have severely impacted food security and water availability. Cyclones Dineo (2017), Chalane (2020), and Eloise (2021) further tested the country’s resilience.
