The Meteorological Services Department, in conjunction with the Department of Civil Protection, has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rains, hail, lightning and strong winds expected to affect several provinces from Wednesday, 3 to Friday, 5 December 2025.
The warning, classified as Level 1 with medium likelihood and minor impact, applies to Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central Provinces.
According to the advisory, rainfall amounts may exceed 50 millimetres in some areas, particularly in flood-prone zones, river basins and wetlands.
The combination of cold and moist air being driven inland from the south-eastern coast of South Africa, along with existing atmospheric moisture, is expected to trigger widespread thunderstorms and intense downpours.
These conditions may result in hazardous road conditions, reduced visibility, landslides and rockfalls.
People living in the affected areas are urged to take precautionary measures ahead of the storms. The MSD said:
“Cold and moist air being driven by a pressure rise over the south eastern coasts of South Africa, combined with the currently available moist air in the country, is expected to result in widespread thunderstorms, strong winds and hail countrywide, with a bias towards the Eastern provinces where some areas may receive an excess of 50mm of rainfall in 24 hours from Wednesday, 03 December to Friday, 05 December 2025.
“These conditions pose serious risks, including flash floods, hazardous road conditions with reduced visibility, landslides and rockfalls.
“The public is therefore strongly advised to take precautionary measures as directed by the Civil Protection Unit.”
The Department of Civil Protection recommend mending rooftops, securing loose items, ensuring the safety of livestock, and trimming overhanging branches.
As storms approach, people are advised to seek shelter indoors, avoid standing under trees or near tall objects, and refrain from using open vehicles or machinery.
During the storm, it is important to stay away from flooded areas and avoid using taps or showers due to the risk of lightning strikes.
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