By A Correspondent

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a warning of heavy rains, thunderstorms, and flash floods expected to hit most parts of the country until Saturday, January 11, 2025.

“Heavy downpours exceeding 50 millimeters within 24 hours are expected across the country,” the MSD advisory stated. “An abundance of moisture in the atmosphere, brought by a cloud system, has been causing rainfall across the country since late December 2024 and continues into January 2025.”

According to the MSD, areas such as Matabeleland North, northern areas of Midlands, Harare Metropolitan, northern parts of Manicaland, and all Mashonaland Provinces can expect scattered thundershowers from January 5-8, 2025.

The MSD also warned of additional moisture from the southeast coast of Southern Africa, which is expected to bring cloudy, windy, and cold conditions over Matabeleland South, Masvingo, and Manicaland Provinces by Wednesday evening.

“By Friday, January 10, the rain showers are expected to intensify in the southern parts of Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, and Harare Metropolitan Provinces, with rainfall exceeding 50mm in 24 hours,” the MSD advisory noted.

The department also cautioned that potential flooding can occur even in areas that might not have experienced heavy rains, as floods can result from upstream rainfall. Additionally, violent storms could lead to falling trees, blown-off rooftops, and collapsing billboards due to strong winds.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed about weather updates to ensure their safety.