The weather report and forecast issued by the Meteorological Services Department in conjunction with the Department of Civil Protection at 4 PM on Friday 17 February 2023 valid until Sunday 19 February 2023:
PREAMBLE
Thunderstorms were experienced throughout the country due to the present low-pressure system.
Heavier falls were witnessed in Matabeleland North Province which is where the nucleus of the system was.
Notable recorded rainfall amounts were at the following places; Victoria Falls (65mm), Lupane (58mm), Hwange (50mm), Binga (50mm) and Chisengu (43mm).
Meanwhile, the low-pressure system continues to affect the country though with less vivacity and is drifting eastwards.
FORECAST FOR TOMORROW, MONDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2023
Scattered thunderstorms are expected throughout the country which may be heavier in the extreme northern areas that is in Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East and northern parts of Manicaland Provinces.
It should be cloudy throughout the day with breaks of sunshine here and there.
Temperatures will be in the warm category during the day and mild in the morning and evening.
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 give rise to flash flooding leading to treacherous road conditions.
- Lightning is a major threat during this part of the year, being inherent in thundershowers.
ACTIONS TO TAKE
- Avoid crossing rivers or streams of unknown depth; even if it has not rained heavily in the area, it might have done so upstream;
- Heavy rains may reduce visibility; if driving, please find somewhere safe to park till the rains subside.
- Avoid contact with water or metal objects including farming equipment when lightning is visible, even from a distance. Umbrellas are not safe during storms, and raincoats are better, however, staying indoors is the best of all.
WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR TUESDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2023
All provinces except for Matabeleland North province should have scattered thunderstorms in cloudy conditions which may be heavy in some areas.
Matabeleland North province is expected to be partly cloudy with slight chances of afternoon thundershowers.