Thunderstorms expected in some parts of the country this week

THUNDERSTORMS are expected in some parts of the country between tomorrow and Wednesday but farmers are discouraged from planting if they are going to depend on rain-fed agriculture.

The rainy season usually starts in October and runs up to March and preliminary projections point to normal to below normal rains in the southern parts of the country.

Farmers are encouraged to practice conservational farming including adoption of Pfumvudza/Intwasa farming method.

In a statement, the Meteorological Service Department (MSD) said areas such as Plumtree, Kezi, West Nicholson in Matabeleland South yesterday recorded lower temperatures averaging 21°C resulting in light rains.

“This was signifying the cloud-band approaching from the south-west, which gave rise to brief cloudy periods and odd showers in Matabeleland South and Matabeleland North provinces.

“The conventionally humid areas around Lake Kariba and Binga were also hot from early morning,” reads the statement.

“On Tuesday, hot and humid conditions are expected in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, Midlands and Masvingo provinces as well as in the areas along the Zambezi Valley, with brief cloudy period and light showers in places like Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces.

“All other areas should be mostly sunny and hot, though mild at first and towards evening.”

The MSD said on Wednesday the public should expect windy and cloudy conditions, which may result in heavy downpours, especially in the Eastern Highlands.

“Anticipate cloudy, windy and mild conditions in Matabeleland South, Masvingo, Manicaland, southern areas of the Midlands and Bulawayo Metropolitan Provinces,” it said.

“Rain and drizzle is expected with heavy downpours in places along the Eastern Highlands. Scattered clouds are expected along the main watershed including Harare Metropolitan and southern parts of Mashonaland East with mostly sunny and hot conditions in Matabeleland North, northern districts of the Midlands and much of the Mashonaland Provinces,” reads the MSD statement.

The specialised weather agency said with the sunny and hot conditions being experienced, this may contribute to dehydration and the public should stay hydrated.

MSD said the public should also expect rains during the said periods.

“Drink adequate amounts of water to keep hydrated, wear a sunhat or sunscreen if there is a need to be outdoors for a prolonged period of time between the hours of 10am to 3pm when the sun is at its peak intensity.

“Showers may disrupt outdoor activities, plan with the weather in mind. Remember that, when thunder roars, it is best to be indoors,” said MSD.

“Early planting is only recommended for those with irrigation water and those practicing the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.

“It is still too early to start planting if one is fully dependent on rainfall for germination and growth. For better advice please consult your local Agritex Officer. Monitor the temperature within fowl-runs and adjust heat accordingly to reduce bird mortality,” reads the statement. — @nqotshili