Zimbabwe Weather Report & Forecast: 06 To 08 January 2023
The weather report and forecast issued by the Meteorological Services Department in conjunction with the Department of Civil Protection at 4 PM on Friday 06 January 2023 valid until Sunday 08 January 2023:
PREAMBLE
The prevailing cloud-bearing system over Zimbabwe caused widespread thunderstorms yesterday although rainfall amounts measured in most areas were below 20m.
A few places that had amounts in excess of 20mm includes Plumtree (42mm), Chegutu (40mm), Banket Research (40mm), Tarisa Park (Goromonzi) (38mm), Mvuma Agritex (33mm), Royal Golf Club (Harare) (32mm), Belvedere (Harare) (28mm).
This morning, temperatures were in the mild range across the country. Nevertheless, a southeasterly airflow is expected to set in towards the evening.
FORECAST FOR TOMORROW, SATURDAY 07 JANUARY 2023
Morning rains with windy conditions should be expected in areas in Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, southern parts of Midlands, Masvingo and southern Manicaland Provinces.
The remaining areas are expected to have thunderstorms that could start as early as mid-morning in some places.
Isolated heavy rainfall amounts are expected with the possibility of flooding in flood-prone areas.
IMPACTS
- Lightning strikes remain a threat to humans and livestock, as well as infrastructure.
- Localized heavy rains may reduce visibility in a few areas, more so at night.
- Flash flooding is probable in localized areas especially those that have water-saturated soils, impervious (paved) grounds, wetlands and river basins.
ACTIONS TO TAKE
- Avoid crossing flooded rivers, swollen streams, areas where flash flooding has occurred, or where flowing water is above ankle height. Noting that, a 30cm depth of flowing water can sweep away large vehicles. Wait for the water to subside before attempting to cross, even if no heavy rains have occurred in the area in question, they may have occurred upstream.
- When thunder roars, go indoors. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the thunderstorms have ended. These are precautionary measures to reduce the chances of being struck by lightning.
WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR SUNDAY 08 JANUARY 2023
Avoid crossing flooded rivers, swollen streams, areas where flash flooding has occurred or where flowing water is above ankle height. Noting that, a 30 cm depth of flowing water can may sweep away large vehicles.
Wait for the water to subside before attempting to cross, even though flooding is caused by heavy rains that occurred somewhere.
Do not hide or park under trees during thunderstorms or heavy rains
When thunder roars, go indoors. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the thunderstorms have ended. These are precautionary measures to reduce the chances of being struck by lightning
