Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
BULAWAYO residents who have been shivering through a biting cold spell can finally look forward to some relief, with the chilly conditions expected to ease as from Thursday.
The cold snap, which hit Bulawayo and several other parts of the country earlier this week, was caused by cool, moist south-easterly winds interacting with a mid-level atmospheric system, according to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD).
The department said the affected areas included Matabeleland South, parts of Matabeleland North, Bulawayo
Metropolitan, Midlands, Manicaland, Harare Metropolitan and Mashonaland East.
The weather advisory, issued on Sunday, warned that from Tuesday to Thursday, the southern and eastern parts of the country would experience “generally cloudy, windy and cold conditions”, with a slight chance of light rain and drizzle in some areas.
But with Thursday marking the end of the advisory period, residents can expect the cold conditions to gradually ease.
The MSD urged members of the public, particularly vulnerable groups and farmers, to take precautions against the cold, windy and wet conditions.
Residents were advised to dress warmly, including wearing hats, gloves and socks, while spending as much time indoors as possible, especially during the early mornings and at night.
The department also encouraged people to drink warm fluids and eat warm, nutritious food.
Farmers were warned that strong winds could damage crops, plants and structures, while excessive moisture could affect grain quality and increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Livestock owners were urged to provide animals with shelter, bedding and adequate feed, with young animals needing particular protection from the cold.
