The Meteorological Service Department (MSD) has warned of heavy rains expected in some parts of the country including Manicaland, Matabeleland South, Masvingo as well as the southern parts of the Midlands Province from today (Wednesday) up to Friday.
In a statement, the MSD advised members of the public to take precautionary measures against the expected heavy rains which may be coupled with incidents of hail, strong winds and lightning.
“Of note however on Wednesday 20 November, parts of Manicaland, Matabeleland South, Masvingo Provinces, as well as Southern areas of the Midlands Province are forecast to receive heavier rains in excess of 50mm in 24 hours,” said the department.
“These may be coupled with incidents of hail, strong winds and lightning. Similar conditions should spread northward to affect areas along the main watershed on Thursday 21 November.”
MSD also said, “thereafter, the rains should steadily ease-off giving way to bright and showery conditions in most areas, with a possibility of localized heavier falls over Mashonaland East into northern parts of Manicaland.”
Members of the public are warned to avoid being caught outdoors or on the road during the heavy storms and to take safety precautions.
“It is expected that these rains may result in heavy downpours, damaging winds, lightning, hail and flash flooding. Uprooting of trees and damage to infrastructure cannot be ruled out with this type of rainfall intensity,” said the department.
“Some of the precautions to be taken on board are: avoid being caught outdoors or on the road during heavy storm, more so at night when flood dangers are more difficult to perceive.”
The MSD warned members of the public to avoid crossing flooded rivers and swollen streams where depth is unknown.
It said it will continue monitoring the conditions and update the public accordingly, while urging members of the public to provide feedback or information on disaster through the department’s Twitter, WhatsApp and Facebook.
