The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), together with the Department of Civil Protection, has issued a weather advisory warning of heavy rain, strong winds, thunder, and lightning from Tuesday, 20 January to Saturday, 24 January 2026.
In the advisory, released on Sunday, 18 January 2026, the MSD said that heavy rain and flash flooding are expected across the entire country. It said:
“Driven by a system of low pressures to the north and south of the country, warm, moist air is expected to generate widespread thunderstorms, strong winds, and frequent lightning across Zimbabwe from Tuesday, 20 to Saturday, 24 January 2026, with some areas likely to receive in excess of 50mm of rainfall within 24 hours, significantly elevating the risk of flash floods, hazardous road conditions with reduced visibility, landslides, and rockfalls, particularly in areas already saturated by ongoing rains.
“The public is therefore strongly advised to take precautionary measures as directed by the Department of Civil Protection.”
Members of the public are advised to repair rooftops, secure loose items, ensure animals are safe, and trim any hanging branches before a storm.
During a storm, people should avoid using machinery or open vehicles such as tractors, stay away from open areas, avoid using taps or showers, and not enter flooded areas.
Because of the high risk of lightning strikes, members of the public are urged not to stand under trees or near tall objects, and to seek shelter indoors instead.
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