Heavy downpours, high winds, and severe hailstorms swept across several parts of Zimbabwe after a passing cloud system originating from Botswana moved over the region, official weather reports show.
According to data released by the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), significant rainfall amounts were logged across the western and southern provinces.
The highest rainfall was recorded in Zaka at 63 mm, followed closely by Nkayi at 63 mm, Masvingo at 56 mm, Gweru at 58 mm, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport at 47 mm, and Matopos at 40 mm.
The weather agency highlighted that the sudden onset of intense localised weather patterns resulted in extreme conditions in several communities, including Masvingo, which experienced a destructive heavy hailstorm.
“Scattered thunderstorms occurred over much of the western and southern parts of the country yesterday due to a passing cloud system from Botswana,” the MSD said in a weather report.
“This morning, mostly cloudy and cool conditions prevailed over much of the country with scattered thunderstorms developing over much of the country as the day progressed.”
The department confirmed that, while the primary cloud system is currently exiting the country via the northern and eastern regions, unstable weather patterns are projected to persist throughout the week.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, weather forecasters warn that northern parts of Midlands, Harare Metropolitan, northern Manicaland, and all Mashonaland provinces will likely experience cool morning conditions transitioning into warm afternoon weather with scattered thunderstorms.
The MSD said hailstorms remain a high risk in these regions. Meanwhile, southern regions including Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, and southern parts of Midlands and Manicaland will face partly cloudy, windy, and warm conditions with isolated thundershowers.
“When thunder roars, it is best to be indoors. Do not shelter under trees during thunderstorms, carry a raincoat where possible, and plan your day with rain showers in mind,” the MSD warned.
Unsettled weather will linger into Thursday, with light rain expected across southern provinces in the morning, followed by isolated showers and thunderstorms across northern and central districts later in the day.
Authorities urged citizens to monitor official channels for further early warning alerts as unstable atmospheric conditions develop across the region.
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