Heavy rains expected in Manicaland

Agriculture Reporter
CLOUDY conditions — coupled with scattered hailstorms — have brought some beneficial rains which rejuvenated crops and gave farmers in the province hope as weather experts predict heavy rain in Manicaland.

The weather forecast issued out by the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe (MSD) for Manicaland, on Wednesday, indicated that heavy rains will continue pounding the province as the rest of the country should be mainly partly cloudy.

The wet spell started in Buhera last Thursday.

The last significant rains in Manicaland were mid-November, since then maximum temperature hovered at around 42 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature was around 25 degrees — which are both above average.

The staple maize had looked miserable as it wilted in the scorching heat.

The irrigated tobacco was also being affected as water level in farm dams decreased, leading to the disruption of irrigation cycles.

Agritex head for Manicaland Mr Godfrey Mamhare said the moderate rains received in Manicaland this week have brought hope among thousands of farmers throughout the province who had resigned to watching helplessly their crops wilting.

“The whole province has received some rains, though the intensity varies, but what is more appealing is that those areas lying in the rain shadow and low lying ones like Buhera and Chisumbanje received significant precipitation. The crops have been rejuvenated.

“We expect farmers to be in full swing planting. They should not waste time, but expend their energies on the second planting.

“We expect the season to be short, making it ideal for them to plant short season varieties. Farmers should also to plant a hecterage they are capable of feeding optimally and managing to ensure better yields. It would be an exercise in futility to plant a big portion that one cannot feed properly,” said Mr Mamhare.

Mr Mamhare also said those in drought-prone regions should plant small grains which have better chances of surviving in harsh dry conditions as well as diversify their sources of livelihood.

The MSD said Manicaland and Mashonaland provinces were set to receive heavy rains.

“Cloudy conditions should persist with intermittent outbreak of afternoon and evening rain and thunderstorms.

“Temperatures should be mild throughout the day. The remainder of the country should be mostly partly cloudy with isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms, which may be violent in places.

“It should be warm to hot during the day, but cool overnight. It should continue to dry out in the Matabeleland provinces, with an increase in day time temperatures.

“As a warning to the public, the Meteorological Services Department reiterates the following, due to the excessive rains expected, there is heightened risk of flash flooding. Do not take shelter under trees during a thunderstorm as there is enhanced risk of being struck by lightning.

“People should refrain from parking vehicles under big and old trees as these may fall down. All outdoor activities should be planned with the weather in mind.

“There is danger of electricity poles falling over thus increasing the risk of electrocution when cables are handled carelessly. Motorists should be exercise extra caution on poorly maintained roads,” said MSD in a statement.