MSD forecasts thunderstorms, downpours of over 30mm from Tuesday

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted rain and thunderstorms for all parts of the country from Tuesday to Thursday.

In an advisory issued on Sunday, 27 September 2026, the MSD said the system will bring rain with lightning, thunder and strong winds, with localised downpours of above 30mm.

The Department warned the public to watch out for lightning strikes and flash floods in low-lying areas, rivers and urban centres, strong winds that could damage crops, rigging and sails, and bring down trees, plants and structures.

It also warned of grain quality reduction, saying rain during grain filling and maturity can reduce quality, while high moisture levels can increase the risk of fungal diseases.

According to the MSD, weather conditions are expected to change as cool, moist south-easterly winds interact with a mid-level atmospheric system.

Rain, occasionally accompanied by thunder, lightning and strong winds, will affect parts of Masvingo from Tuesday morning before spreading to other provinces later in the day.

From Wednesday, 30 September, cloudy and cool conditions are expected, with rain likely in Masvingo, Matabeleland South and southern parts of Manicaland, while thunderstorms remain possible in other areas.

Last week, MSD deputy director for public weather services, Isaac Masawana, said rain experienced in parts of the country is not a sign that the 2026/27 rainy season has begun.

“This has nothing to do with the start of the season. We are still far away from the season onset,” he said.