HEAVY RAINS WARNING: Starting Wednesday afternoon

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a stark nationwide alert, forecasting a severe bout of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and intense lightning set to lash the majority of the country from tomorrow afternoon.

The impending tempest is expected to persist through until Friday, bringing with it a significant risk of flash flooding and hazardous travel conditions. The MSD has placed numerous provinces on high alert, urging the public to take immediate precautionary steps to ensure their safety.

According to the detailed advisory, the severe weather system will not be isolated. The MSD indicated that a substantial cloud mass is moving in from the west, set to combine with moisture from the south-east, creating the perfect conditions for a major downpour.

The forecaster stated,

“This will result in heavy rainfall (exceeding 50mm) as well as strong winds in provinces such as the northern parts of Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, Midlands, Manicaland, and Harare Metropolitan Provinces.” The department further cautioned motorists, noting, “Roads may also be slippery and visibility reduced by rainfall, thus requiring a need for increased braking distance.”

Areas known for being flood-prone, particularly in Manicaland, Masvingo, and major cities, are considered to be at the highest risk.