The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has cautioned that unstable weather conditions will continue in the coming days following widespread thunderstorms that caused heavy rainfall in several parts of the country, including Harare and neighbouring provinces.
According to the MSD, significant rainfall amounts were recorded within a 24-hour period, with Southerton in Harare receiving the highest total of 100 millimetres. Other areas that experienced substantial rainfall include Murehwa with 95mm, Mufakose in Harare with 92mm, Chinhoyi with 74mm, and Henderson which recorded 66mm.
The department said the storms were experienced nationwide, particularly affecting Harare and parts of Mashonaland, driven by high moisture levels prevailing over much of the country.
Weather conditions on Monday were characterised by cloudy and relatively cool conditions in the morning, before rising temperatures combined with moisture to trigger scattered thunderstorms later in the day.
Looking ahead, the MSD forecast that Tuesday will start off mostly cloudy and mild, becoming warmer during the afternoon, with scattered thunderstorms expected across all regions. The department warned that areas such as Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East and Harare Metropolitan are at risk of experiencing localised heavy rainfall.
By Wednesday, the weather is expected to remain partly cloudy and mild in the morning, warming up in the afternoon, with isolated thunderstorms likely towards the evening.
The MSD has urged the public to exercise caution during the stormy period, advising people to avoid crossing flooded rivers and streams, and to seek safe shelter in sturdy buildings or hard-topped vehicles to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.
The department said it will continue to closely monitor weather developments as Zimbabwe remains in the peak of the rainy season, with disaster management agencies on standby for possible flooding and lightning-related incidents.
