The Meteorologic Department has said heavy rains are still possible in many parts of the country, in the department’s weather forecast valid till Sunday 31 January. The statement also stated that heavy rains in access of 66 mm were received in Fatherstorn and some places like Vic Falls, Zaka and Binga received rains in excess of 33mm.
Said the MSD in a statement:
29 JANUARY 2021 VALID UNTIL SUNDAY 31 JANUARY 2021.
PREAMBLE
The presence of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone coupled with strengthening of moist south-easterly winds led to countrywide thunderstorms and heavy rains in a number of places yesterday. Of note Featherstone (Chikomba District) measuring 66 mm by this morning, Zaka recorded 57 mm, Kezi and J. M. Nkomo International Airport (Bulawayo) both measured 54 mm, 48 mm at Victoria Falls, Mvurwi had 41 mm, 39 mm at Mukandi as well as at West Nicholson, Binga record 32 mm, while Goetz Observatory (Bulawayo) and Beitbridge both measured 31 mm.
FORECAST
FORECAST FOR TOMORROW SATURDAY 30 JANUARY 2021:
South-eastern parts of Masvingo Province (namely Chiredzi, Mwenezi, Bikita into Zaka District) and southern areas of Manicaland (Districts such as Chipinge and Chimanimani) should be partly cloudy and warm with isolated showers which may be thundery in places. Thunderstorms and rain is expected in all other areas (Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands, Bulawayo and Harare Metropolitan and all Mashonaland Provinces) with mostly cloudy, humid and warm conditions for the bulk of the day. Localized heavier downpours (in excess of 30 mm) are probable in areas along the main watershed.
IMPACTS
- Flooded rivers remain a potential hazard; even if it has not rained heavily in the area, heavy rains may have occurred upstream.
- Heavy downpours may reduce visibility and flood dangers become difficult to perceive during heavy rains
- Destructive winds may result in trees falling and blown-off of roof tops.
ACTIONS TO TAKE
- When Thunder Roars, it is best to be indoors! Do not shelter under trees or in isolated sheds
- Avoid crossing flooded rivers and swollen streams whether on foot or in a vehicle.
- Keep away from metal equipment and pipes, as these are prone to lightning strikes.
- Do not ride at the back of an open truck or drive a tractor during a storm,
- Avoid driving when visibility is poor, more so at night and during heavy rains.
- Stay Weather-Ready and Environment-Safe.