MSD warns of thunderstorms and heavy rains

The Meteorological Service Department (MSD) has issued a severe weather alert warning of heavy rains exceeding 80 millimetres, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in several parts of the country from today until Tuesday.

The warning covers much of Zimbabwe, including Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, the southern districts of Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, Harare Metropolitan and Mashonaland East. The MSD cautioned that the combination of intense rainfall and unstable atmospheric conditions heightens the risk of flash floods, falling trees, damaged infrastructure and reduced road visibility.

"Watch out for heavy rainfall and flash flooding in flood-prone areas, river basins and wetlands," the department said in a statement. Residents in the affected provinces were urged to remain alert and take necessary safety precautions.

The MSD warned that strong winds may blow off rooftops, uproot trees and pose a danger to unsecured property, while frequent lightning strikes increase the risk to both people and livestock. Households were advised to mend rooftops, secure loose items, and ensure that animals are safely sheltered. People were also encouraged to trim fragile or hanging branches that could be hazardous during storms.

Seconds before a storm, when lightning begins to flash, the MSD urged the public to immediately seek refuge indoors and avoid standing under trees or near tall objects. The department further advised against the use of open vehicles or machinery such as tractors during severe weather. Additional safety guidance included avoiding open spaces, refraining from using taps or showers during lightning activity, and staying out of flooded areas.

According to the MSD, a thick cloud system is moving in from Botswana towards Zimbabwe's western border, while cool, moist air from the southeast is also advancing into the country. The convergence of these systems is expected to produce widespread heavy rainfall, thunder and strong winds.

"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 powerlines," the MSD said.

The department urged the public to follow all precautionary measures issued by the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) and to monitor official MSD updates as the weather system develops.