MSD warns of heavy rains

Zim Now Writer

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of heavy rains that are expected to =hit some parts of the country starting tomorrow until around January 3, 2023.

In a statement yesterday, MSD said the heavy rains would spread southwards after starting from the northern parts of the country.

The heavy rains, caused by the drifting of the Intertropical Convergence Zone, which is the region that circles the Earth, near the equator.

“Watch out for localised heavy rains (in excess of 50mm) with lightning and hailstorms in some places,” the MSD report read.

The MSD said moisture should start drifting into the country from Zambia through all Mashonaland provinces starting tomorrow and spread into other parts of the country.

“This should gradually spread southwards to cover Matabeleland North, northern parts of Midlands, northern districts of Manicaland, Bulawayo Metropolitan and Harare Metropolitan provinces into the New Year, with a cloud band expected to enhance rainfall over Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces during the first week of January 2023.”

MSD also warned of the destruction of infrastructure due to the heavy rains and implored the public to take extra caution during the advised period.

“The public should watch out for blown off rooftops, loose debris, and fallen trees due to strong winds and open drains and potholes that may be covered in water. Stay indoors during thunderstorms unless it is an emergency.”

Heavy rains in some parts of the country have often been associated with flooding and destruction of homes and infrastructure.