Online Reporter
Andile Tshuma
ZIMBABWEANS waking up to chilly mornings, only to be scorched by the afternoon sun and then drenched by surprise showers, are not losing their minds.
It’s all part of nature’s script as the country shifts from winter into summer, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has revealed.
Meteorologist James Ngoma explained that the strange blend of cold, heat and sudden rains is driven by clashing air masses. “We seem to be experiencing a blend of both extremes—cloudy and cold conditions followed suddenly by hot and sunny weather across the country. We also see the occasional shower or two. This is because we are currently in the transitional period between winter and summer,” he said.
Cold winds are sweeping in from the south-east through South Africa and Mozambique, chilling mornings and nights. At the same time, the sun’s return from the north and winds from the north-east are heating afternoons. Westerly cloud bands are also dragging in moisture, fuelling thunderstorms, strong winds and even hail.
The MSD says this cocktail is nothing unusual but warns that October remains the driest and hottest month of the year. “October is expected to be mostly sunny and hot, with only isolated showers. Farmers should not be tempted to plant yet,” said Ngoma.
The big news is in the rainfall outlook. The MSD forecasts normal to above-normal rains for the 2025/26 season, with November expected to bring more consistent showers and December tipped for very heavy rainfall.
“Farmers should begin preparing their land and inputs now. December rains may be continuous, leaving little chance to plant during dry breaks,” Ngoma advised.
For now, Zimbabweans will have to keep sweaters handy for the mornings, shed them at lunchtime, and maybe grab an umbrella by evening.
