Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
ZIMBABWEANS in the southern half of the country should brace for another two days of unusually low temperatures, with the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) warning that the cold spell is expected to persist until Thursday.
The cold conditions, which have already gripped parts of the country, are being driven by a cut-off low in the middle levels of the atmosphere and a high-pressure system over the south-eastern coast of South Africa.
MSD meteorologist Mr Baba Maketa said the cold weather was expected to ease from Thursday, although mornings would remain chilly.
“We expect low temperatures over the southern half of Zimbabwe until Thursday, August 13, 2026. From there onwards, sunny conditions should prevail, though with cold mornings,” he said.
Mr Maketa said the cut-off low was located between the 700 and 500 millibar levels of the atmosphere, while the surface high-pressure system over the south-eastern coast of Southern Africa was also contributing to the cold conditions.
“There is also a high-pressure system on the surface, over the south-eastern coasts of Southern Africa,” he said.
Mr Maketa said some areas could also receive light showers during the period.
The cold spell has raised concerns among farmers, particularly those growing winter wheat and horticultural crops, as prolonged exposure to very low temperatures can affect crop development and yields if adequate protective measures are not taken.
The latest weather conditions are also being experienced in neighbouring South Africa, where parts of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State have been hit by heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures and icy conditions.
The South African Weather Service has attributed the extreme weather to the interaction of a cut-off low and a ridging high-pressure system, which are drawing significant moisture into the affected areas while bringing very cold temperatures.
Disruptive snowfall has been reported in parts of the Eastern Cape, including Dr Beyers Naude, Chris Hani, Senqu, Elundini and Matatiele.
In KwaZulu-Natal, snowfall has affected areas including Kokstad, Underberg, Matatiele and Clifton near Nottingham Road.
In the Free State, motorists have been warned to exercise caution because of slippery roads, poor visibility and rapidly changing weather conditions.
