The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a warning of continued unsettled weather conditions in the country, following widespread thunderstorms that brought heavy rainfall to several areas, including Harare and surrounding provinces. According to the MSD’s latest weather update, intense rainfall was recorded in various locations over a 24-hour period, with Harare’s Southerton area receiving 100 millimeters of rain. Other areas that experienced significant rainfall include Murehwa, which received 95 millimeters, Harare Mufakose with 92 millimeters, Chinhoyi with 74 millimeters, and Henderson with 66 millimeters.
The MSD attributed the heavy rainfall to abundant moisture over much of the country, which led to widespread thunderstorms across the nation, particularly in Harare and Mashonaland. On Monday, the weather began with mostly cloudy and mild conditions, but as temperatures rose and combined with the moisture, scattered thundershowers developed later in the day. Looking ahead, the MSD forecast indicates that Tuesday will start with mostly cloudy and mild conditions, becoming warmer in the afternoon with scattered thunderstorms expected across all regions. Localized heavy rainfall is likely to occur over Mashonaland West, Harare Metropolitan, and Mashonaland East.
By Wednesday, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy and mild in the morning, turning warm in the afternoon with isolated thundershowers likely towards the evening. The MSD has urged the public to take necessary precautions during this stormy period, advising them to avoid crossing flooded rivers and to seek shelter in safe buildings or hard-topped vehicles to avoid lightning strikes. As the country moves through the peak of the rainy season, the MSD will continue to closely monitor the situation, working with disaster risk agencies to prepare for possible flooding and lightning-related incidents.
The current weather conditions are a reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. The MSD’s warning serves as a reminder to the public to stay informed about weather updates and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. With the rainy season expected to continue, it is essential for individuals to stay vigilant and follow the advice of weather authorities to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. The MSD’s efforts to monitor and predict the weather will help to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and keep the public safe.
