Heatwave affects Zimbabwe

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) said that Zimbabwe experienced record breaking high temperatures. MSD forecaster James Ngoma yesterday said very hot temperatures were recorded in Nyanga, where they topped 38 degrees Celsius, up from the previous record of 32 degrees Celsius.

Ngoma said the high temperatures will continue today in Matabeleland North, all Mashonaland provinces, northern parts of the Midlands and Harare provinces. He also said that Kariba recorded the highest temperature of 42 degrees Celsius. Said Ngoma:

Chisengu and Mutare recorded 39 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius, up from 37 degrees Celsius and 39 degrees Celsius, respectively. Kariba recorded the highest temperature of 42 degrees Celsius, Victoria Falls 40, Great Zimbabwe 29, Vumba 35, Harare 35, Bulawayo 35, Gweru 35, Mutare 40, Lupane, 42, Gwanda 41 and Marondera 39 degrees Celsius. Bindura recorded 39, Masvingo 39 and Kwekwe 38 degrees Celsius.

Today, (Wednesday), high temperatures will continue to be experienced in Matabeleland North, all Mashonaland provinces, northern parts of the Midlands and Harare provinces. The daytime temperatures will be cooler than late. We therefore advise the public to take extra precautions in ensuring that the elderly and young children are kept well hydrated through adequate intake of water. If one needs to be out in the direct sun, please carry an umbrella or wear a wide-brimmed hat. Those in malaria-prone areas are also advised to utilise the necessary preventative measures as mosquitoes proliferate during this season, especially near bodies that can hold stagnant water such as dams, swimming pools and even small containers. Note that mosquitoes only require an inch of standing water to breed,

More: Herald