Met Dept issues heavy rains alert

HEAVY rains are expected across much of the country for the next seven days from today to Wednesday next week, the Meteorological Services Department forecasts, as the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone combines with a cloud band moving in from the west.

Downpours exceeding 50mm are expected along the main watershed.

In the West this sees such rain in Bulawayo, plus Matobo, Umzingwane, Insiza, and parts of Mangwe in Matabeleland South and Umguza and Bubi in Matabeleland North.

Downpours above 50mm are expected in Zvishavane, Shurugwi, Kwekwe, Kadoma, Chirumhanzu and Mberengwa in Midlands and Chivi, and Gutu in Masvingo.

In the north, the 50mm downpours are likely in Harare Metropolitan, Chegutu, Zvimba, Bindura, Shamva, and Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe in Mashonaland West and Chikomba, Seke, Wedza, Marondera, Murehwa and Mutoko in Mashonaland East.

Other areas, although expected to receive heavy rains, will record below 50mm.

The Met Department warned that the localised heavy rains will be characterised by lightning and hail storms in some areas, and so warned of flash floods, insecure roofs being blown off, and trees falling in strong winds.

The heavy rainfall is caused by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone combining with a cloud band coming from the western parts of the country.

“The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which has been active over the northern parts of the country is expected to combine with a cloud band, which is moving from the west to the east covering the whole country.

“As a result, the combined effect of the two should result in precipitation amounts over 50mm in areas along the main watershed,” said the forecast.

People should stay indoors during thunderstorms unless there is an emergency and warned motorists and travellers to avoid crossing rivers in flood. ◆ Full story on www.herald.co.zw