Online Reporter
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke
Senior Reporter
THE country is bracing for a potentially difficult 2026/27 rainfall season, with forecasts pointing to erratic rains, prolonged dry spells and warmer-than-normal temperatures under the influence of a strong El Niño phenomenon.
The forecast has prompted authorities to step up contingency planning, water harvesting and conservation programmes to minimise the humanitarian and socio-economic impact of the anticipated dry conditions.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said yesterday that ministries, departments, agencies and other stakeholders should strengthen preparedness measures ahead of the potentially challenging season.
“Due to increased likelihood of reduced rainfall, Ministries, Departments, Agencies and stakeholders are encouraged to strengthen contingency planning in order to mitigate potential humanitarian and socio-economic impacts,” Minister Soda said.
He said water harvesting and conservation would also be prioritised to cushion communities.
“The 2026/2027 rainfall season is expected to be influenced by a very strong El Niño which increases the likelihood of a below to normal rainfall season,” he said.
The National Climate Outlook covers the period from October 2026 to March 2027 and was produced following the consensus regional climate outlook issued during the 33rd Southern African Regional Climate Outlook Forum held in Swakopmund, Namibia, in August.
