The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) of Zimbabwe has warned of heavy rainfall and strong winds that will be brought by Tropical Cyclone Freddy.
In a weather alert seen by Pindula News, MSD said the former Tropical Cyclone Freddy, currently an Overland Depression is set to enter the waters of the Mozambique Channel at 1700hrs today.
Freddy is expected to head West-South-West and in 36 hours, reach its final peak intensity of around 110 km/h (60 knots) [Severe Tropical Storm stage].
Freddy will be forced westward making landfall in the early morning hours of Friday 24 February 2023 and quickly weakening over the next 3 days.
Freddy will finally dissipate over Southern Africa.
However, as early as Thursday evening into Friday morning, the spinning cloud bands, of Tropical Storm Freddy, are anticipated to cause localized heavy rains (above 65mm) and strong winds (reduced to less than 40 knots) in districts such as Chimanimani, Chipinge, Chiredzi, Mwenezi, Beitbridge, Chivi, Masvingo Rural, Zaka and Bikita.
These areas as some of the parts of Zimbabwe which have received the least cumulative seasonal rainfall.
MSD said members of the public must watch out for very localised heavy rains, and flash-flooding in areas with saturated soils, wetlands, impervious grounds and along river basins. The department also warned the public to expect blown rooftops and fallen trees due to strong winds.
MSD urged the public to open drains and potholes that may be covered in water.
It also urged the public to stay indoors during thunderstorms unless it is an emergency saying rains may affect outdoor activities.
MSD warned against travelling saying rainy weather may affect drivers’ vision.
The department also warned against attempting to cross flooded rivers on foot or in vehicles WEATHER IN MIND, IF TRAVEL IS NECESSARY,