Zimbabwe Braces for Heavy Rains and Severe Thunderstorms

23 December 2025

By Nokusa Masuku

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a stern warning of continuous heavy downpours and severe thunderstorms across much of Zimbabwe this week.

The alert follows a weekend of significant rainfall, with some areas receiving over 50mm of precipitation.

The MSD forecasts an escalation in weather activity, with heavy rainfall probable in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Matabeleland South, Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, and Mashonaland East. Moderate continuous rain is highly likely today, with unstable conditions expected to persist.

The MSD strongly advises citizens to take immediate precautions to safeguard life and property. Residents are also advised to seek shelter in safe, enclosed structures during thunderstorms and avoid open fields, tall isolated trees, or metal objects to prevent lightning strike injuries.

The combination of saturated ground and predicted heavy new falls raises the risk of flash flooding, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage and traditional flood-prone zones. Local authorities and residents are advised to clear drainage pathways and secure loose outdoor items.

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