Zimbabwe faces threat of destructive thunderstorms, hailstorms this week

THE Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of potentially destructive thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong winds expected across parts of Zimbabwe from Tuesday through Thursday.

MSD deputy director Isaac Masawana said the weather system would begin in the western parts of the country before moving eastwards, bringing heavy downpours to some areas.

Matebeleland North and South, Masvingo, Midlands and parts of Mashonaland West are expected to be affected initially.

By Thursday, thunderstorms are expected to extend to eastern parts of the country, mainly the northern areas, while cooler south-easterly airflows are likely to reduce the chances of storms in the south.

Masawana warned that some areas could experience very heavy rainfall, accompanied by lightning, hailstorms and strong winds.

He urged the public to take precautions, warning that strong winds could blow off roofs while flying sheets of asbestos and iron could endanger people and damage buildings.

“Make sure that you are in a house that is strong enough to withstand these effects of the strong winds.

“In terms of your vehicles, make sure that they are not exposed to these conditions, because they might be destroyed by the hailstorms as they will be falling downwards,” he said.

Masawana attributed the intensity of the expected storms to high temperatures, which increase atmospheric energy and can contribute to the development of severe weather systems.

He urged the public to follow official MSD weather updates and verify information circulating on social media to avoid unnecessary panic.

The department said the public should remain alert to further updates as the weather system moves across the country.

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