MANICALAND IN TROPICAL STORM THREAT

THE tropical depression, which developed in Mozambique on Sunday, has evolved into a tropical storm named Ana.

It is projected to bring localised heavy rains and strong winds to Manicaland and Mashonaland provinces, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has said.

The storm has been named by Mozambique.

Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia are threatened by floods this week.

The MSD said Tropical Storm Ana was projected to intensify to the minimal stage of a severe tropical storm before it landed on the coast of Mozambique yesterday.

MSD senior forecaster, James Ngoma, said the low-pressure system in the middle of the Mozambique Channel had been gradually intensifying, in the past few hours.

“When the system lands on Mozambique, the gusts of the wind could reach or even exceed 120 kilometres per hour, near the coast.

“Intense rains are expected in the region north of Beira today and then to southern Malawi on Tuesday.

“Localised downpours and strong winds are probable in the southern districts of Manicaland province,” he said.

From today until Thursday, Ngoma said heavy rains, above 50mm, were expected in

Mashonaland and Manicaland in the following areas — Chipinge, Chimanimani, Mutare, Mutasa, Nyanga, Mudzi, UMP, Rushinga, Mt Darwin, Centenary, Mbire, Northern Hurungwe and Kariba districts.

Light rains and moderate to strong winds are expected elsewhere.

“People should watch out for localised heavy rains, which may reduce visibility and cause riverine or flash flooding, strong winds which may carry debris, roof sheets or break off tree branches,” Ngoma said.

“Stay indoors during thunderstorms and heavy rains.

“Avoid crossing flooded rivers, whether on foot or in vehicles.”