Do not cross rivers where water bodies are above ankle level! Met Department issues flood warning as heavy rains pound the country

FLOOD-PRONE areas have been urged to be on high alert as violent heavy rains coupled with hailstorms are expected throughout the country until Saturday.

The Meteorological Service Department said heavier rains are expected in the northern parts of Manicaland, Mashonaland East, and Central as well as Harare metropolitan provinces.

In a statement, MSD said the rains will be intense for five days starting yesterday.

“Heavy rains are expected across the country from 26 to 30 December 2023. The western parts of the country should be affected first then by 30 December the whole country should have been affected. Localised heavy downpours with rainfall above 50mm in 24 hours are anticipated in some places with strong winds, lightning, and hailstorms,” read the MSD statement.

The rains read the statement, will be accompanied by thunder, lightning, and even hailstones while strong damaging winds are anticipated across the country.

“All areas are expected to receive localised rainfall amounts of 50mm or more in 24 hours and flooding is probable in low-lying areas such as the Muzarabani, Save, and Zambezi valley,” reads MSD statement.

Rains exceeding 30mm within 24 hours are considered to be very intense and could sweep away even cars and the public is urged against crossing water bodies where water is above ankle level.

The MSD urged the public to avoid open fields, hilltops, tall trees, and bodies of water, and to remain indoors during thunderstorms.

-@nqotshili