By Ziyah News Reporter.
The Meteorological Service Department (MSD) has issued a warning for violent storms expected in various parts of Zimbabwe, particularly in the Matabeleland region, marking the onset of the 2024/2025 rainy season.
In response to the anticipated severe weather, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has activated its national disaster response systems to ensure preparedness and safety.
While rainfall this month is projected to be minimal, forecasts indicate that conditions will intensify in line with the normal to above-normal predictions for the La Niña season across the Southern African region.
The MSD has released a cautionary weather update for the three days ending Wednesday, predicting isolated but violent showers in Matabeleland North and the northern parts of the country, while other regions will experience cooler temperatures.
“Moisture is expected to drift into the northern parts of the country, namely Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West, and Mashonaland Central, early on Sunday morning, October 13, 2024,” the MSD stated.
“This moisture should quickly spread into the northern Midlands, Harare Metropolitan, and all Mashonaland provinces, intensifying slightly on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, resulting in isolated light showers accompanied by lightning, thunder, and windy conditions.”
The MSD also cautioned that a significant strengthening of relatively cool winds from the southeast coast of Southern Africa is anticipated on Tuesday evening. This will lead to a cool and moist southeasterly airflow into Zimbabwe, resulting in cloudy, windy, and cool weather over Matabeleland South, Masvingo, and Manicaland provinces, as well as the southern part of the Midlands on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
Light rain and drizzle are likely in some areas.
As the rainy season begins, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential storm-related disruptions. The CPU’s activation of disaster response systems underscores the importance of community readiness in the face of severe weather events.