Zimbabwe Braces for Isolated Violent Storms as Meteorological Service Department Warns of Extreme Weather

The Meteorological Service Department (MSD) has issued a warning of violent storms set to hit some parts of Zimbabwe, including the Matabeleland region, this week.

The storms mark the beginning of the 2024/2025 rainy season as the nation braces for what is predicted to be a La Niña season with above-normal rainfall across Southern Africa.

While rainfall this month is projected to be minimal, the MSD expects rain intensity to increase as the season progresses. The department’s latest update predicts isolated but violent showers in Matabeleland North and the northern parts of the country. The storms are expected to be accompanied by cooler temperatures.

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Meteorological Service Department Warns of Isolated Violent Storms

According to the MSD, moisture will begin moving into Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West, and Mashonaland Central provinces starting on Sunday, October 13. By Tuesday, October 15, it will spread to the northern Midlands, Harare Metropolitan, and all Mashonaland provinces, resulting in isolated light showers with lightning, thunder, and windy conditions.

“This should quickly spread into the northern Midlands, Harare Metropolitan and all Mashonaland provinces and intensify slightly, on Tuesday 15 October 2024,” the MSD noted.

Additionally, a cool southeasterly airflow is expected to affect the southern parts of Zimbabwe by Wednesday, bringing cloudy, windy, and cool weather to Matabeleland South, Masvingo, Manicaland, and southern Midlands provinces. Light rain and drizzle are also likely in some areas.

Violent Storms Zimbabwe — *Zimbabwe Braces for Isolated Violent Storms [Image: Business Times]*

Disaster Response Systems Activated

The Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has activated its national disaster response systems in preparation for potential emergencies.

CPU director Nathan Nkomo said the country is fully prepared following a two-day contingency planning session involving over 70 stakeholders.

“We have put our machinery in motion and what is left is to put it to test when the rains come,” Nkomo stated.

As the nation prepares for the rainy season, authorities continue to monitor weather developments closely, urging the public to remain cautious during the period of violent storms.

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