The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a weather warning, forecasting heavy rainfall (over 50mm) in certain areas, along with lightning and strong winds (wind gusts).
In an advisory released on Friday, 7 February 2025, the MSD, in conjunction with the Department of Civil Protection, said that the heavy rainfall is expected to affect Manicaland, Masvingo, Midlands, and Matabeleland South provinces from Saturday, 8 February 2025 to Tuesday, 11 February 2025. The advisory reads in part:
<blockquote>
A low-pressure system currently over the Mozambique Channel is intensifying and moving westwards from the Mozambique Channel towards the Mozambique coast. This should continue westward across the eastern and southern parts of Zimbabwe.
Thus, thunderstorms and rain are expected over Mashonaland East, Manicaland, and Masvingo on Saturday, the 8th of February 2025, and in Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan and the Midlands Provinces from Sunday, the 9th of February 2025, until Tuesday, the 11th of February 2025.
Hailstorms accompanied by strong winds and cold conditions, are highly probable. Due to the intensity of the rainfall during this period, flash floods are highly likely.
</blockquote>
The public has been urged to stay alert for heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash flooding, especially in flood-prone areas, river basins, and wetlands.
Provinces including Mashonaland East, Manicaland, Masvingo, Southern Midlands, Bulawayo Metropolitan, and Matabeleland North and South are expected to experience these conditions, along with strong winds, fallen trees, lightning, and hailstorms nationwide.
In preparation for storms, the public is advised to take the following precautions:
<ul>
<li>Mend rooftops and secure loose items</li>
<li>Ensure animals are safely sheltered</li>
<li>Trim any loose branches or debris</li>
</ul>
The MSD and Department of Civil Protection stressed that during a storm, it’s important to:
<ul>
<li>Stay indoors when lightning flashes</li>
<li>Avoid standing under trees or near tall poles or structures</li>
<li>Refrain from using machinery or open vehicles like tractors</li>
<li>Stay away from open areas and flooded zones</li>
<li>Avoid using taps or showers</li>
<li>Keep up with regular updates from official MSD platforms</li>
</ul>

Pindula News

The weather department says heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning will hit parts of Zimbabwe from 8 to 11 February. The rain could cause flooding and hailstorms in some areas. People are told to secure their homes, take care of animals, and stay safe during the storms. They should stay indoors when there is lightning, stay away from tall trees or poles, and don't use machinery. Keep updated with the weather report and stay safe during the bad weather.

Heavy Rain And Strong Winds Expected Across Zimbabwe From 8 To 11 February

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted that most parts of the country will experience heavy rains, thunderstorms, and flash floods until Saturday, January 11, 2025.
In an advisory issued over the weekend, the MSD predicted that heavy downpours exceeding 50 millimetres (mm) within 24 hours are expected across the country. The advisory noted:
<blockquote>
An abundance of moisture in the atmosphere, brought by a cloud system, has been causing rainfall across the country since late December 2024 and continues into January 2025.
Matabeleland North, northern areas of Midlands, Harare Metropolitan, northern parts of Manicaland, and all Mashonaland Provinces are expected to receive scattered thundershowers from 5–8 January 2025.
</blockquote>
The MSD said that additional moisture from the southeast coast of Southern Africa on Wednesday evening would result in cloudy, windy, and cold conditions over Matabeleland South, Masvingo, and Manicaland Provinces. The MSD added:
<blockquote>
By Friday, January 10, the rain showers are expected to intensify in the southern parts of Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Harare Metropolitan Provinces, with rainfall exceeding 50mm in 24 hours.
</blockquote>
The MSD also issued a warning about potential flooding, even in areas that might not have experienced heavy rains, as floods can result from upstream rainfall.
Violent storms could lead to falling trees, blown-off rooftops, and collapsing billboards due to strong winds.
The department advised the public to secure their rooftops and properties, avoid parking vehicles under trees, refrain from standing under trees or being the tallest object to prevent lightning strikes and avoid using outdoor heavy machinery during storms.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The weather department says there will be lots of rain and floods until January 11. Rain will be heavy and may cause flash floods. Some areas will have thunderstorms. People should be careful of falling trees and collapsing roofs. It's important to secure your home and avoid being outside during storms. The rain will be most intense in certain provinces, so people need to be extra cautious there. Stay safe and listen to the weather warnings.

Met Department Warns Of Heavy Rains And Floods Until January 11

The Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) has urged farmers to complete their planting as the risk of a short growing season increases.
This advisory follows a statement from the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), which indicated that the current wet spell is expected to last until the middle of this month.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/wet-spell-to-continue-till-mid-january/">The Herald</a>, ARDAS Chief Director Leonard Munamati said time is running out for farmers who have not yet planted their crops. Said Munamati:
<blockquote>
Areas have received rainfall during the festive season, and we are quite excited because most areas received heavy rainfall.
Farmers who have planted are now expecting germination and looking forward to improved rains.
Most crops are currently in the vegetative stage, allowing for fertiliser application. We encourage split applications to enhance crop conditions.
Time is running out, and we want our farmers to plant on time.
</blockquote>
Agritex Deputy Director Rutendo Nhongonhema urged farmers to embrace effective agronomic practices to enhance germination and accelerate crop growth. She said:
<blockquote>
We should come early with our top dressing and subsequent top dressing should be frequent with a small amount of top dressing being applied so that we give our crop a comparative advantage and it grows fast to cater for the heat units.
</blockquote>
She encouraged farmers to monitor for pests, particularly the fall armyworm, which is most prevalent from December to January, and recommended conducting checks at least twice a week. Added Nhongonhema:
<blockquote>
Up to 50 percent losses can be incurred if weeds are not managed properly. Farmers are encouraged to implement an integrated weed management plan.
This includes chemical, physical, and biological control. During incessant rains, it may be difficult to use chemical control, so we advise methods like slashing, hand-pulling, or using hoes.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Farmers are being told to finish planting quickly because the growing season might be shorter than usual. There has been a lot of rain, which is good for crops. Farmers who have planted are waiting for their crops to grow, and they need to take care of them by using fertilizers and watching out for pests. Farmers should also manage weeds properly to avoid losing up to 50 percent of their crops. It's important to follow good farming practices to make sure the crops grow well.

Farmers Urged To Complete Planting Amid Short Growing Season Concerns

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) said insufficient soil moisture, caused by the 2024 El Nino-induced drought and weak December rainfall, has delayed crop planting in Zimbabwe.
In a statement, the FAO also noted that while the total rainfall for November, which usually signals the start of the planting season, was near normal across most of the country, it was unevenly distributed over time. FAO said:
<blockquote>
Planting of the summer 2025 cereal crops is underway and is expected to conclude in January. Remote sensing analysis indicates that the total rainfall amount for November, which typically marks the start of the planting season, was near normal across most of the country, but unevenly distributed over time.
However, a severe drought earlier in the year, which sharply reduced the 2024 cereal harvest, has kept soil moisture levels still unusually low, particularly in the northeastern provinces, which are key agricultural production zones.
These dry soil conditions may hinder and delay planting operations, especially with rainfall amounts in early December below average and weather forecasts pointing to a high probability of below-average rainfall amounts and higher-than-average temperatures for the rest of the month.
</blockquote>
However, the FAO said rainfall patterns are likely to return to average beginning in 2025. This offers a glimmer of hope for farmers, who have been grappling with the challenges posed by the El Nino-induced drought and erratic rainfall. It said:
<blockquote>
From January onwards, weather forecasts suggest a likely return to average rainfall amounts. The government continues to support access to agricultural inputs for the 2024/25 cropping season, with an estimated 3.5 million households targeted to receive inputs through a subsidy programme.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe is facing delays in planting crops due to not enough soil moisture from a drought and weak December rainfall. The FAO says while November's rainfall was normal, it was not evenly spread out. The drought earlier in the year also affected soil moisture levels. This may make planting harder. But, the FAO predicts average rainfall in 2025. Farmers are getting support and hope for a better crop season. The government is assisting with agricultural inputs for millions of households. This news gives hope for a better farming season next year.

El Niño Drought And Weak December Rainfall Delays Crop Planting In Zimbabwe

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has urged the public to be on high alert when the current dry spell ends and rainfall activity resumes, with forecasts indicating possible hailstorms and heavy winds.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/rains-to-return-in-a-week-met-dept/">ZBC News</a>, Meteorologist Baba Maketa advised farmers to make use of the dry spell for tasks such as weeding and other farming operations, as normal to above-normal rains are expected from this month through February next year.
Maketa said that although a dry spell is anticipated over the next seven days, farmers should continue their activities as the overall season remains favourable for agricultural operations. He said:
<blockquote>
Our season as per our advisory is still fine, nothing has changed. From December up to February next year, we still forecast normal to above rainfall, but as the rains come back it will likely be associated with thunderstorms and heavy downpours hence people should be on high alert.
</blockquote>
Last week, the MSD issued a warning about a dry and hot spell affecting most parts of Zimbabwe, lasting from November 30 to December 11, 2024.
These hot and dry conditions are being caused by a cool, moist south-easterly airflow, which is impacting the weather conditions across the country.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The weather people say when the dry spell ends, there might be hailstorms and strong winds. Farmers should keep working during the dry spell because lots of rain is coming from December to February. Be careful when the rain comes back, it might be stormy. The weather will be hot and dry until December 11 because of a cool wind. Listen to the weather people and be safe!

Met Department Warns Of Hailstorms And Heavy Winds When Rainfall Returns

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a warning about a dry and hot spell set to affect most parts of Zimbabwe starting tomorrow, Saturday, November 30.
In a weather advisory issued on Thursday, November 29, the MSD said the dry conditions are expected to last until December 11, 2024, leading to a reduction in rainfall across the country.
The Met Department said the relatively dry and hot conditions are a result of a cool, moist south-easterly airflow entering the region this Friday.
Despite the dry conditions, light rain and drizzle are expected in Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces on Friday. The MSD said:
<blockquote>
Starting Friday, November 29, 2024, a cool moist southeasterly airflow should reduce the occurrence of thunderstorm activities.
However, light rain and drizzle should be experienced in Matabeleland South and Masvingo Provinces on Saturday, November 30.
From Sunday, December 1, until the end of the watch validity period, generally mostly sunny and hot conditions are expected across the country though very isolated cloudy and light showers can not be ruled out.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The weather department says it's going to be very dry and hot in Zimbabwe until December 11. This is because of a cool, moist wind coming in from the southeast. There might be a little bit of rain in some places, but not much. Thunderstorms will be less likely. The weather will be mostly sunny and hot, with a chance of a few light showers. So, get ready for dry and hot weather in Zimbabwe for the next few days!

Met Department Forecasts Dry Spell To Last Until December 11

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecast widespread rainfall and localised downpours across Zimbabwe from Monday, 12 November to Friday, 15 November.
In a weather advisory issued on Sunday, 10 November, the MSD warned that heavy rainfall, exceeding 50mm, is expected in the southern parts of Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Harare Metropolitan Provinces on Wednesday. Said the MSD:
<blockquote>
A cloud band entered the country from the west on Sunday the 10th of November 2024 bringing moisture over all Matabeleland and Bulawayo Metropolitan provinces.
On Monday evening, 11 November more moisture should be driven in from the South-East coast of Southern Africa.
This should result in more rainfall in Matabeleland South, Masvingo and Manicaland Provinces on Tuesday 12 November 2024.
By Wednesday 13 November, the rain-showers should be heavier in the southern parts of Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East and Harare Metropolitan Provinces; with some of the rainfall being in excess of 50mm in 24 hours from Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 November 2024.
</blockquote>
During this period, the MSD has warned that lightning, hailstorms, and strong wind gusts are expected to affect the entire country.
Members of the public are urged to exercise caution, particularly around flooded rivers, low-lying bridges, and waterways. People are advised not to attempt crossing flooded rivers, as conditions could be hazardous.
Additionally, there is a risk of fallen trees, damaged rooftops, and billboards being blown off due to the strong winds. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The weather department says there will be lots of rain and heavy downpours in Zimbabwe from Monday to Friday. Different parts of the country will get different amounts of rain on different days. There may also be lightning, hail, and strong winds. People should be careful around flooded areas and not try to cross rivers. The strong winds could cause trees, roofs, and billboards to fall down. It's important to stay safe and listen to any advice from the authorities.

Met Department Forecasts Widespread Rainfall And Heavy Downpours

The government has indicated that the start of the 2024/25 rain season will be delayed, with October—typically the month when rains begin—expected to remain relatively dry.
Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Sithembiso Nyoni, said that Zimbabwe will experience “normal to above normal rainfall” in 2024/25 starting next month.
According to a post-cabinet update from Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, October is projected to be drier than the long-term average. He said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet also received a brief on the 2024/2025 Seasonal Rainfall Forecast for Zimbabwe as presented by the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Honourable Dr Sithembiso Nyoni.
Cabinet would like to advise that during the 2024/2025 summer season the country is expected to receive normal to above normal rainfall.
However, the month of October is expected to be drier than the long term average, but from November onwards the forecast is for normal to above normal rainfall.
Farmers and the whole nation are guided to plan accordingly.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe faced its most severe drought in 40 years during the 2023/24 season, which weather experts linked to El Niño.
The inadequate rainfall from the previous season impacted agricultural yields, putting 20 per cent of the country’s 15 million residents at risk of famine, according to the World Food Programme.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe will have a delayed start to the rainy season in 2024/25, with October being dry. The Minister said there will be normal to above normal rainfall starting next month. Farmers and the whole country are advised to plan ahead. Last year, there was a severe drought which impacted agriculture and put many people at risk of famine. Experts think the drought was caused by El Niño. The government is preparing for the upcoming rainy season to help avoid another food crisis.

Zimbabwe Faces Delayed Start To The 2024/25 Rain Season

The opposition ZAPU party has urged the government to declare the 2023/2024 farming season a national disaster due to the severe drought prevailing across the whole country.
ZAPU National Organiser, Ndodana Moyo, told <a href="https://cite.org.zw/zapu-declare-farming-season-a-national-disaster/">CITE</a> that thousands of farmers have already lost their crops and livestock, adding that declaring the drought a national disaster will ensure that people receive aid on time. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
I have been travelling to many rural areas and see that many families if not thousands, have lost their crops to the heat and lack of rain, not to mention the effect of drought on livestock as well. This means more people will face starvation.
I, therefore, implore the Government to declare this farming season a national disaster so that people receive the necessary interventions and aid on time.
If there is no or little rain, it’s obvious people will lose their crops, vegetables, and livestock.
This is why, as ZAPU, we are saying the farming season should be declared a national disaster because it’s affected by drought.
</blockquote>
ZAPU’s call comes after the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, declared the ongoing drought in that country a national disaster and emergency.
Hichilema said Zambia had gone without rain for five weeks at a time when farmers needed it the most.
Meanwhile, in Zimbabwe, some areas last received effective rainfall in the second week of January.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Declare Farming Season A National Disaster - ZAPU

The Government on Monday launched a US$400 000 countrywide cloud-seeding programme and deployed two aircraft for the operation, one in Bulawayo to service southern parts of the country, and another to operate from Harare to serve the northern parts of the country.
The southern African region is currently reeling from the adverse impact of El Nino, which is characterised by high temperatures and drought.
Meteorological Service Department (MSD) Bulawayo provincial officer, Chiposi Ngulube, told <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/watch-heavy-rains-for-matabeleland-region-farmers-welcome-cloud-seeding/">Chronicle</a> that his team would start cloud seeding between 10 and 11 January in parts of the southern region.
Newly-appointed Agricultural Rural Development and Advisory Service (ARDA) Matabeleland North provincial director, Dumisani Nyoni, said:
<blockquote>
We are desperate for the rain. The bulk of our crop has just germinated and some is yet to germinate, and we need the rain so that our crops properly grow. We haven’t met our targets in terms of planting.
We still have some crops that can still be planted in this period including cowpeas, sugar beans, and sweet potatoes to improve food security.
We have not received significant rains to generate enough pastures for our livestock going forward.
So, we need the rain, and whatever effort that can lead to increased rainfalls will be appreciated.
Even the rivers are not yet flowing so we still need the rains so that our rivers flow to enable dams to impound water.
We also need water to sink underground because looking at our situation as Matabeleland North province, most of our areas depend on boreholes so there is a need to have a recharge on the boreholes. The recharge can only be obtained through rain.
So, if cloud seeding will produce some positives, this would be welcome. We need the water table to recharge.
Umguza is planting wheat using borehole water so definitely needs a recharge on the underground water system.
</blockquote>
Cloud seeding is a technique used to enhance precipitation in clouds by dispersing substances, such as silver iodide or potassium iodide, into the air.
The idea is to introduce more nuclei for water vapour to condense around, thereby increasing the chances of rainfall.
Meanwhile, the MSD has forecasted heavy rains across much of the country from 11 January to 17 January.
In a weather alert issued on Wednesday, 10 January, the MSD warned of heavy rains above 50mm along the main watershed.
It said the heavy rainfall is caused by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone combined with a cloud band coming from the western parts of the country.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Launches Cloud Seeding Programme

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted heavy rains across much of the country from 11 January to 17 January.
In a weather alert issued on Wednesday, 10 January, the MSD warned of heavy rains above 50mm along the main watershed.
It said the heavy rainfall is caused by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone combined with a cloud band coming from the western parts of the country. Read the forecast:
<blockquote>
The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which has been active over the northern parts of the country is expected to combine with a cloud band, which is moving from the west to the east covering the whole country.
As a result, the combined effect of the two should result in precipitation amounts over 50mm in areas along the main watershed.
</blockquote>
Rain above 50mm is expected in Bulawayo, plus Matobo, Umzingwane, Insiza, and parts of Mangwe in Matabeleland South and Umguza and Bubi in Matabeleland North.
Zvishavane, Shurugwi, Kwekwe, Kadoma, Chirumhanzu and Mberengwa in Midlands and Chivi, and Gutu in Masvingo are also expected to receive rainfall exceeding 50mm.
In the north, the 50mm rainfall is likely in Harare Metropolitan, Chegutu, Zvimba, Bindura, Shamva, and Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe in Mashonaland West and Chikomba, Seke, Wedza, Marondera, Murehwa and Mutoko in Mashonaland East.
The rest of the country, although expected to receive heavy rains, will likely record below 50mm.
The MSD has warned the public that lightning and hailstorms are probable in some places.
Members of the public have been advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms unless it is an emergency, and also not to attempt to cross flooded rivers on foot or in vehicles.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Met Department Issues Heavy Rains Warning

The Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has urged communities in flood-prone areas to be on high alert as heavy rains coupled with hailstorms are expected throughout the country until 30 December 2023.
In a recent statement, the Meteorological Service Department (MSD) said heavy rains are expected in the northern parts of Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central and Harare, before spreading across the country by Saturday.
The Met Department warned that low-lying areas such as Muzarabani and the Zambezi Valley among other areas were at a high risk of flooding.
According to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/flood-prone-areas-on-high-alert-as-heavy-storms-forecast/">Chronicle</a>, in the Matabeleland region, Tsholotsho and Binga have pockets that are always susceptible to flooding, while in Bulawayo, areas that include parts of Nkulumane, Nketa and Cowdray Park suburbs often experience flooding during heavy storms.
The MSD said an anticipated cloud band that would bring along heavy rains landed in the country yesterday and the Matabeleland region received the heavier rains. It said:
<blockquote>
The much-anticipated cloud band has fallen into Zimbabwe and this morning the western half of the country recorded some significant falls. The highest measured amounts of rainfall were at; Bulawayo Goetz Observatory 31mm, Binga 21mm, Lupane 15mm, Victoria Falls 14mm, Kariba 13mm and Joshua Nkomo International Airport 10mm. Meanwhile, the cloud band is sweeping across the country from the West to the East.
The western parts of the country should be affected first then by 30 December the whole country should have been affected. Localised heavy downpours with rainfall above 50mm in 24 hours are anticipated in some places with strong winds, lightning and hailstorms.
All areas are expected to receive localised rainfall amounts of 50mm or more in 24 hours and flooding is probable in low-lying areas such as the Muzarabani, Save, and Zambezi valley.
</blockquote>
The MSD warned members of the public against crossing flooded rivers, saying people can be swept away by water above their ankles while a 30cm depth of flowing water can even sweep away large vehicles.
The MSD also urged the public to avoid being in fields, hilltops, tall trees, and bodies of water and remain indoors during thunderstorms to avoid being struck by lightning.
Meanwhile, the CPU, which deals with natural disasters in the country, said it has activated all its sub-national structures to deal with rain-related eventualities. CPU director Nathan Nkomo said:
<blockquote>
As per our tradition, we have activated all our sub-national structures and we have done our educational awareness campaigns. We usually say if you see your programme being adopted by traditional leaders then you would be satisfied.
So we have communicated with the traditional leaders’ structures on issues governing disasters.
We might not have given them adequate resources but it is very very critical information spreads in communities.
It is our motto that disaster prevention begins with information and we have spread the information.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is poorly prepared for natural disasters such as floods due to the underfunding of the CPU and there is an acute shortage of equipment to rescue victims.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Flood-prone Areas On High Alert As Met Office Forecasts Heavy Downpours

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted heavy rains and flash floods in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country from 09 to 15 February 2023.
In a recent advisory, the MSD said the rains are due to moisture drifting into the country from Mozambique. It said:
<blockquote>
Moisture is drifting into the country from Mozambique through Mashonaland East and Manicaland Provinces, this has been coupled by a cloud band moving from Botswana into Matabeleland South.
These two systems should lead to considerable rainfall in Matabeleland South, southern parts of Midlands, Manicaland, Mashonaland East and Harare Metropolitan Provinces, as well as other areas along the Harare-Bulawayo highway.
</blockquote>
The Met Department also warned that localised heavy downpours accompanied by lightning and hailstorms are probable. MSD said:
<blockquote>
Localised heavy rains in excess of 50 millimeters with lightning and hailstorms will in some places result in rooftops being blown off causing loose debris while trees may fall due to strong winds.
Open drains and potholes that may be covered in water are some of the things to watch out for.
</blockquote>
The MSD advised members of the public to stay indoors during thunderstorms unless it’s an emergency, and to avoid crossing flooded rivers on foot or in vehicles as this may lead to loss of life.

Met Department Warns Of Heavy Rains, Strong Winds

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) and the Department of Civil Protection have terminated the heavy rainfall alert they issued last week.
The departments said the heavy rainfall activity has reduced since Monday this week.
The Met Department’s head of forecasting, James Ngoma, <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/heavy-rainfall-alert-terminated/">told State media</a> the cloud band that was responsible for the heavy rainfall has weakened. He said:
<blockquote>
The band which was responsible for the considerable rain over the weekend has since weakened and moved eastward into Mozambique and beyond.
The country is however still in the main rainy season, with the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone still very much active, thus more rainfall is anticipated.
The MSD will keep monitoring and keeping the public informed of all-weather events that may affect Zimbabwe and its populace.
</blockquote>
Ngoma advised people in the southern parts of the country to harvest water as there will likely be a lull in rainfall activity. He said:
<blockquote>
Moderate rains are still expected, with localized downpours. A slight lull in the rainfall is probable, especially in the Southern parts of the country.
What people should do is practice water harvesting from all possible sources, irrigate where plant stress is noted, and consult their local agritex officer for site-specific crop and livestock advice.
</blockquote>

Met Department Terminates Heavy Rainfall Alert

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has directed Provincial Education Directors (PEDs) in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces to ensure that boarding students travel to schools after the 8th of January 2023 due to excessive rains forecasted by the Meteorological Services Department (MSD).
The MSD forecasted heavy rains along and north of the main watershed and the Eastern Highlands from Friday to Sunday.
In a memorandum addressed to PEDs in Masvingo and Manicaland provinces, Ministry of Education permanent secretary Tumisang Thabela said:
<blockquote>
The Civil Protection Unit has alerted of the potential imminent excess rainfall and storms between 6 and 8 January 2023 particularly in Manicaland Province: Mutare rural, Chimanimani, Chipinge, Buhera, and in Masvingo Province: Chiredzi, Mwenezi, Gutu, Bikita, and Zaka Districts.
In view of this warning, boarding pupils are advised to travel after these dates. Be guided accordingly.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, the Department of Civil Protection advised members of the public that heavy rains in excess of 65mm in 24 hours are expected in all Mashonaland, Manicaland, parts of the Midlands and Masvingo provinces from Friday 6 through Sunday, January 8, 2023.

Ministry Of Education Advises Boarding Pupils To Travel After 8 January

The Department of Civil Protection has advised members of the public that heavy rains in excess of 65mm in 24 hours are expected in all Mashonaland, Manicaland, parts of the Midlands and Masvingo provinces.
According to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), the rains will pound the country from Friday 6 through Sunday, January 8, 2023.
In a statement released this Wednesday, 4 January 2023, the Department urged the public to be on the watch for possible flooding. The Department of Civil Protection said:
<blockquote>
THE Department of Civil Protection is urging citizens to be on high alert for forecasted torrential rains from Friday 6 through Sunday, January 8, 2023, across the country.
We also call on all relevant stakeholders and traditional leaders to find ways to disseminate the information to their various communities in particular all Mashonaland, Manicaland, parts of the Midlands and Masvingo provinces where heavy rains in excess of 65mm are expected in 24 hours.
We urge the citizens to take heed of the Meteorological Services Department alerts as they continue monitoring the unfolding situation.
Citizens should be on the watch for possible flooding, avoid crossing flooded rivers/streams and stay indoors during the period as the heavy rains may reduce visibility for motorists.
District Civil Protection Committees countrywide have been mobilised.
For further information please contact Mr N. Nkomo- Acting Chief Director, Civil Protection on 0773005477, Mr F. Hokonya 0773654970, Ms M Sibanda 0773722925, Mr L. Betera 0773420090, Mr T. Zimudzi on 0773300388, Mrs O Badza 0776466368.
</blockquote>

Department Of Civil Protection Says It Has Mobilised In Preparation For Heavy Rainfall

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted heavy rains across the country between Thursday 29 December 2022 and Tuesday 3 January 2023 beginning in the north and spreading southwards.
In a weather advisory issued on Monday, 26 December 2022, the Met Department said the wet spell is due to the drifting into the country of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).
The ITCZ is a zone of low pressure that forms near the Earth’s equator resulting in a band of heavy rainfall. MSD said:
<blockquote>
Moisture should start drifting into the country from Zambia through all Mashonaland Provinces from Thursday 29 December 2022.
This should gradually spread southwards to cover Matabeleland North, northern parts of Midlands, northern districts of Manicaland, Bulawayo Metropolitan and Harare Metropolitan Provinces into New Year, with a cloud band expected to enhance rainfall over Matabeleland South and Masvingo Provinces during the first week of January 2023.
Thus much of the country should receive rain showers by the close of the first week of January 2023.
Hazards to watch out for during this period include lightning, strong winds and localised hailstorms.
</blockquote>
The Met Department also warned the public to watch out for localised heavy rains in excess of 50mm with lightning and hail stones in some places, blown off rooftops, loose debris and fallen trees due to strong winds.

Met Department Forecasts Torrential Rains Across The Country

Zimbabwe has not given up hope on a normal to above-normal rainfall season despite low rainfall activity since the start of the 2022/2023 rainfall season, a Cabinet minister has said.
Addressing Tuesday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said most areas have received the rainfall that is expected during this time of the year. She said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet advises the nation that the country continues to be in the normal to above-normal rainfall category, despite the reduced rainfall activity experienced during the past week.
Most areas across the country have received rainfall which is expected at this time of the year.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa also said rural farmers are being registered and trained for the Pfumvudza programme, with the distribution of farming inputs ongoing. Mutsvangwa said:
<blockquote>
Inputs distribution, registration and training on Pfumvudza/Intwasa are in progress, with distribution continuing to be done according to agro-ecological zone requirements.
A total of 2 888 163 Pfumvudza/Intwasa farmers have been trained to date compared to 2 294 471 at the same time of the previous season.
Similarly, 5 121 509 plots have been prepared compared to 2 859 714 plots at the same time of the previous season.
Cabinet highlights that 86% (68 106 metric tonnes) of the received basal fertilizer has been distributed across the provinces, while 78% (21 084 metric tonnes) of top dressing fertiliser has been distributed.
Out of the 15 500 metric tonnes of the ordered maize seed, 13 189 metric tonnes has been received. Planting has commenced in many areas.
</blockquote>

Normal To Above-normal Rainfall Still Expected - Govt

Farmers have been urged to expedite the harvesting of winter wheat as the rains currently pounding most parts of the country could seriously affect wheat quality.
Zimbabwe is expecting a bumper wheat harvest but agricultural Rural Development Services chief director Obert Jiri revealed that to date, only 35 per cent of the winter wheat has been harvested. Said Jiri:
<blockquote>
There is no advantage to keeping winter wheat in the fields because its quality will be reduced. In fact, it will not become wheat if rains fall on it.
So, we expect wheat farmers to really expedite harvesting because all the wheat in the country is now dry.
At the moment there are lighter rains, but if rains persist, this will definitely affect the quality of the wheat.
So we are appealing for every combine harvester in the country to be deployed and mobilised for wheat harvesting.
We are at about 30%-35% in terms of our wheat harvesting. We have so far harvested 29 000 hectares out of 137 000 hectares out there.
Because of the rains, we expect harvesting to be fast so that we can move into the summer planting season without incurring any major losses.
</blockquote>
The President of the Senate, Mabel Chinomona, who also planted wheat this year, said the quality of the wheat has not yet been affected but the rains but warned that things can go south at any moment. She said:
<blockquote>
We are now self-sufficient in terms of wheat. So we encourage the government to make sure that winter wheat is harvested across the country to avoid losses.
We have enough wheat, but it just needs to be harvested on time. Yes, we experienced rain, but it was not that serious.
</blockquote>
Recently, Agriculture ministry secretary John Bhasera said the country has a surplus of over 100 000 tonnes of wheat. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200003217/rains-threaten-wheat-harvesting">NewsDay</a>

Rains Threaten Winter Wheat Quality

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of the possibility of erratic rainfall across much of northern Zimbabwe from October to December.
However, the MSD has forecasted normal to above normal in some central and southern western regions of the country over the same period.
MSD head of forecasting James Ngoma told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/observations-show-a-seasonal-delay-of-rainfall-for-first-period/">The Herald</a> on Friday that the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) which normally brings rains across the country might delay. He said:
<blockquote>
Areas in Matabeleland north and south, Bulawayo — in the south and western part of the country started receiving rains as early as September. This was followed by a dry spell and some isolated showers last week.
We are expecting isolated showers over the Eastern Highlands this weekend. We expect these to spread into the interior of the country on Monday and Tuesday (next week).
Most areas in the south and western parts of the country have received less than 5mm of rain.
There might be a false start in the northern parts. Some areas might not receive rain as the systems have not fully established.
Rains are more likely in the southwestern part of the country where there are forecasted to be normal to above normal for the October — November — December period while in the northern part, rains are forecast to be below normal to normal as the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) which normally bring rains might delay.
</blockquote>
The <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/learn-about/weather/atmosphere/intertropical-convergence-zone#:~:text=The%20Intertropical%20Convergence%20Zone%2C%20or,frequent%20thunderstorms%20and%20heavy%20rain.">UK Met Office</a> defines ITCZ as a band of low pressure around the Earth which generally lies near the equator. The trade winds of the northern and southern hemispheres come together here, which leads to the development of frequent thunderstorms and heavy rain.
Meanwhile, according to the Zimbabwe National Climate Outlook Forum, the country is expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall in the 2022 – 23 cropping season.

Late And Erratic Rainfall Forecasted For First Period

Southern African climate experts have forecast normal to above-normal rainfall in the coming 2021 – 2022 cropping season over most parts of the SADC region.
This is according to a seasonal forecast from the 25th Southern African Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF 25) adopted this Tuesday.
The SARCOF-25 was held virtually from August 30 to 31 to generate a consensus outlook for the 2021/2022 rainfall season over the SADC region.
Normal to above-normal rainfall is most likely over the bulk of SADC in the period from October to December (OND) 2021.
However, the north-western part of Angola, the bulk of the Democratic Republic of Congo, western and southern Madagascar, northern Malawi, northern Mozambique, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa, south-western United Republic of Tanzania and north-eastern Zambia are likely to receive normal to below-normal rains.
The January to March (JFM) 2022 period is expected to have normal to above-normal rainfall for most of the region except for, south-western fringes of Angola, western fringes of Namibia and South Africa.
Zimbabwe is forecast to receive normal to above-normal rains in the October-November-December period as well in the last half of the 2021 -2022 cropping season – January – February – March (2022) phase.
This is for the second consecutive season that the region is forecast to get better rains after the 16-member SADC bloc got adequate rains throughout the 2020/21 agricultural season.
From the regional SARCOF report, climate experts will develop a more detailed National Outlook Climate Forum for individual countries in the coming few days.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/good-rainfall-expected-in-sadc-region-for-2021-2022-season/">The Herald</a></h4>

SADC Experts Forecast Good Rains For Zimbabwe

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/ZINWA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA)</a> said water levels in most of the country’s dams have improved due to rains received in most parts of the country over the past several days.
According to ZINWA spokesperson Marjorie Munyonga, the national level average rose from 49.9 per cent on February 6 to 50.4 per cent on February 13.
<blockquote>Water levels in most of the country’s dams continue to improve on the backdrop of the rainfall activity currently being experienced in different parts of the country.
As of February 13, 2020, the national dam level average had risen to 50,4% up from 49, 6% on February 6, 2020.</blockquote>
According to statistics availed by ZINWA, Bulawayo province has a dam level average of 96%, Harare 15,5%, Manicaland 54,6%, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mashonaland_Central" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mashonaland Central</a> 76,2%, Mashonaland East 74,3%, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mashonaland_West" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mashonaland West</a> 72,1%, Masvingo 43%, Matabeleland North 36,8% and Matabeleland South 46,3%.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/02/dam-water-levels-rise/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

MSD Latest News

Latest Jobs