Zimbabwe Braces For Heavy Rainfall And Severe Weather, 16–18 November
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), together with the Department of Civil Protection, has issued a Level 2 weather warning for thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across much of Zimbabwe from Sunday, 16 November, to Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
According to the alert released on Saturday morning, a thick cloud system moving in from Botswana and combining with moisture from the northeast is expected to bring more than 80mm of rain, along with strong winds, lightning, and the risk of flash flooding.
Areas likely to be affected include Matabeleland North and South, Bulawayo, southern Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, Harare, and Mashonaland East. Residents in these regions are advised to take precautions and stay updated on the evolving weather conditions. The MSD said:
“A thick cloud system is expected to move in from Botswana towards the western borders of the country, at the same time receiving cool, moist air from the southeast.
‘The combination of these two systems is expected to bring heavy rainfall exceeding 80mm along with strong winds, thunder and lightning.
“The affected areas include Matabeleland North and South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, the southern parts of Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, Harare Metropolitan and Mashonaland East Provinces, beginning from the afternoon of Sunday, 16, through Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
‘These conditions may lead to flash floods in flood-prone zones and river basins, slippery roads with reduced visibility requiring longer braking distances, as well as fallen trees and power lines.
“The public is therefore strongly advised to take precautionary measures as directed by the Civil Protection Unit.”
People living in flood-prone areas, river basins, and wetlands—especially in Masvingo, Manicaland, Harare, Bulawayo, Midlands, and the Matabeleland provinces—have been urged to stay alert.
The MSD also warned of fallen trees, damaged roofs, and slippery roads with poor visibility, advising people to exercise caution while travelling.
