Cold spell to persist in southern Zimbabwe

Zimbabweans in the southern half of the country have been warned to brace for another two days of unusually low temperatures, with the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) saying the cold spell is expected to persist until Thursday.

The cold conditions, which have already affected parts of the country, are being driven by a cut-off low in the middle levels of the atmosphere combined with a high-pressure system over the south-eastern coast of South Africa.

MSD meteorologist Baba Maketa said temperatures were expected to improve from Thursday, although mornings would remain cold.

"We expect low temperatures over the southern half of Zimbabwe until Thursday, August 13, 2026. From there onwards, sunny conditions should prevail, though with cold mornings," Maketa said.

He explained that the cut-off low was positioned between the 700 and 500 millibar levels of the atmosphere, while a surface high-pressure system over the south-eastern coast of Southern Africa was also contributing to the unusually cold conditions.

"There is also a high-pressure system on the surface, over the south-eastern coasts of Southern Africa," he said.

Some areas could also experience light showers during the period, according to the MSD.

The prolonged cold weather has raised concerns among farmers, particularly those growing winter wheat and horticultural crops.

Very low temperatures can affect crop development and yields, making protective measures important for vulnerable crops during periods of extreme cold.

The weather system is also affecting neighbouring South Africa, where parts of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State have experienced heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures and icy conditions.

The South African Weather Service has attributed the extreme weather to the interaction between a cut-off low and a ridging high-pressure system, which is drawing moisture into affected areas while contributing to very cold temperatures.

Disruptive snowfall has been reported in parts of the Eastern Cape, including Dr Beyers Naude, Chris Hani, Senqu, Elundini and Matatiele.

In KwaZulu-Natal, snowfall has affected areas including Kokstad, Underberg, Matatiele and Clifton near Nottingham Road.

In the Free State, motorists have been urged to exercise caution amid slippery roads, reduced visibility and rapidly changing weather conditions.

Zimbabweans, particularly those in the southern parts of the country, have been advised to monitor official weather updates and take appropriate precautions as the cold spell continues.

While temperatures are expected to improve from Thursday, cold mornings are likely to persist beyond the end of the current weather system.