Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
THE Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a weather alert warning of widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across the country from yesterday until Tuesday, urging the public to exercise extreme caution.
In a weather report and forecast released yesterday, the agency said the abundant moisture over Zimbabwe is expected to fuel significant weather activity.
Heavy rainfall was received in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province yesterday, and the same was expected for Matabeleland South, Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, and Mashonaland East provinces.
“The public is advised to avoid crossing flooded rivers to prevent loss of life,” the MSD said in the advisory, which covers the period up to Tuesday, December 23.
The department further stressed the danger of lightning, urging citizens to seek shelter in a safe space during lightning strikes.
The warning followed a day of substantial rainfall on Saturday, with areas like Mutasa receiving 66mm, Esigodini 55mm, and Binga 52mm, indicating the high moisture levels in the atmosphere.
According to the MSD forecast, today will see mostly cloudy and mild conditions in the morning, giving way to widespread thunderstorms and warm temperatures in the afternoon.
“Moderate continuous rain is highly likely overnight,” reads the update. This signals sustained wet conditions.
The unsettled weather is expected to persist into tomorrow, with partly cloudy morning conditions deteriorating by the afternoon.
“Heavy downpours are probable in places, especially over areas in Manicaland, Mashonaland West and the Midlands Provinces,” the MSD projected.
The update from the MSD is a stern call for public safety.
The department reiterated its warning for Tuesday, repeating the advice against crossing flooded waterways and highlighting the continued risk of lightning strikes.
This weather system highlights the need for vigilance during the current rainy season.
The MSD, through its detailed forecasts and public advisories, is leading a whole-of-Government approach to mitigate weather-related risks and ensure citizen safety.
Citizens have since been urged to monitor official weather updates, plan travel accordingly, and strictly adhere to the safety guidelines to avoid the potentially fatal dangers posed by flash floods and lightning.
