Met Department Warns Of Heavy Rains, Strong Winds

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted heavy rains and flash floods in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country from 09 to 15 February 2023.

In a recent advisory, the MSD said the rains are due to moisture drifting into the country from Mozambique. It said:

Moisture is drifting into the country from Mozambique through Mashonaland East and Manicaland Provinces, this has been coupled by a cloud band moving from Botswana into Matabeleland South.

These two systems should lead to considerable rainfall in Matabeleland South, southern parts of Midlands, Manicaland, Mashonaland East and Harare Metropolitan Provinces, as well as other areas along the Harare-Bulawayo highway.

The Met Department also warned that localised heavy downpours accompanied by lightning and hailstorms are probable. MSD said:

Localised heavy rains in excess of 50 millimeters with lightning and hailstorms will in some places result in rooftops being blown off causing loose debris while trees may fall due to strong winds.

Open drains and potholes that may be covered in water are some of the things to watch out for.

The MSD advised members of the public to stay indoors during thunderstorms unless it’s an emergency, and to avoid crossing flooded rivers on foot or in vehicles as this may lead to loss of life.