Zimbabwe is set to experience severe thunderstorms from Tuesday to the weekend, following a nationwide weather warning issued by the Meteorological Services Department (MSD). In a statement released on Monday, the MSD warned that the forecast heavy rains, strong winds, thunder, and lightning could cause serious safety risks and infrastructure damage across the country.
The MSD has forecast heavy rainfall of 50mm and above in some areas, strong winds, frequent lightning, and thunderstorms countrywide from Tuesday, January 20, to Saturday, January 24, 2026
The MSD has identified several potential risks associated with the severe weather, including:
- Flash floods
- Poor visibility and dangerous road conditions
- Landslides and rockfalls in saturated areas
- Fallen trees and blown-off rooftops
- Lightning strikes
Safety Advice
The MSD has issued safety advice to the public, including:
- Securing loose items and repairing damaged rooftops
- Trimming overhanging tree branches
- Sheltering livestock
- Avoiding flooded areas and open drains
- Staying indoors during storms unless absolutely necessary
- Not sheltering under trees
- Avoiding operating machinery or open vehicles
- Avoiding using taps or showers during thunderstorms
Since the start of the 2025/2026 rainy season, at least 47 people have reportedly died, while infrastructure worth an estimated US$107,402 has been damaged due to weather-related incidents. - Source : Zimbabwe weather MSD
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