Heavy rains expected countrywide this weekend - Met

HEAVY rains accompanied by strong winds and hailstorms are expected across the country this weekend up to end of next week, the Meteorological Services Department has said.

Responding to questions from Chronicle, head of the public weather services, Tich Zinyemba said the heavy downpours would be triggered by high temperatures experienced in the past few weeks across the country.

"Heavy rains are expected in parts of Mashonaland Provinces and Manicaland beginning this Thursday spreading to cover the entire country by the end of next week," said Zinyemba. "While noting that weather patterns may change abruptly, as of now, indications are that there would be  downpours and widespread flash floods."

Zinyemba urged members of the public to take precautionary measures during this period.
"I would like to urge members of the public not to  attempt to cross flooded streams or rivers. They should refrain from parking vehicles under big and old trees," he said.

"Motorists should drive carefully on roads that are already damaged. During heavy rains there is a danger of electricity poles falling over thus increasing the risk of electrocution. I therefore encourage people to be careful and avoid such incidents."

The country's highest accumulated rainfall amounts were recently recorded in parts of Matabeleland North, Masvingo, Mashonaland Central and Manicaland.

The least rainfall was received over the extreme northern parts of Mashonaland West (Rukomechi) and the southern parts of Matabeleland South and Masvingo.