Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, [email protected]
THE Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has intensified its vigilance amid heightened regional concern, as it closely monitors the development and movement of Tropical Cyclone Dudzai in the South‑West Indian Ocean — a region where past cyclones such as Idai and Freddy left devastating trails of death and destruction.
The Zimbabwe‑named system is under round‑the‑clock surveillance by national and regional weather experts.
In an interview yesterday, MSD spokesperson Mr James Ngoma confirmed that the department is continuously analysing satellite imagery, oceanic data and atmospheric models to determine the cyclone’s possible trajectory and intensity.
“We are currently monitoring the fifth system of the season, named Dudzai. Our technical teams are working around the clock with regional counterparts to model its behaviour and provide accurate, timely updates to the nation,” said Mr Ngoma.
While the current analysis suggests a favourable outcome for Zimbabwe, the MSD emphasises that the situation remains dynamic.
According to present models, Cyclone Dudzai is projected to curve away from the African coastline.
“Based on current projections, it is expected that Dudzai will not reach Madagascar, let alone the mainland of Africa, and is therefore not anticipated to affect Zimbabwe,” Mr Ngoma said.
He added that prevailing atmospheric conditions are likely to weaken the system, causing it to lose its organised structure and dissipate over the Indian Ocean.
Despite the positive outlook, the MSD has urged the public and authorities to remain alert, warning against complacency.
The history of cyclones in the region, including the devastating impact of Cyclone Idai, underlines the inherent unpredictability of such weather systems.
A slight shift in atmospheric steering currents could alter the forecast.
Mr Ngoma said the MSD’s proactive stance is a critical component of the nation’s disaster preparedness framework, ensuring that no potential threat goes unassessed.
The 2025–2026 season has so far seen several named storms, including Awo, Blossom, Chenge and the distant Tropical Cyclone Grant, all of which dissipated without impacting the mainland.
Dudzai’s journey is being watched with particular interest given its Zimbabwean namesake.
“The public is urged to treat all official communication from the Meteorological Services Department as the primary and most reliable source of information,” said Mr Ngoma.
He warned against the spread of unverified information on social media, encouraging citizens to await formal advisories and bulletins.
Mr Ngoma said the MSD is committed to providing regular bulletins as the situation evolves.
“We continue to monitor the system closely. Our priority is the safety of all Zimbabweans, and we will issue immediate updates should there be any significant change in the forecast that could pose a risk to our country,” he said.
