Staff Writer
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of scattered thunderstorms and possible hailstorms across several parts of Zimbabwe between today, Tuesday, 27 October, and Thursday, 29 October 2026.
In an advisory issued on Monday, 26 October, the MSD said thunderstorms were expected to affect the southern and western provinces on Tuesday before shifting towards the northern and eastern provinces on Wednesday and Thursday.
“Scattered thunderstorms with possible hailstorms” are expected, the department said, adding that the likelihood of the weather conditions occurring was high, although the anticipated impact was classified as minimal.
According to the MSD, from Tuesday afternoon, thunderstorms are expected over Matabeleland North and South, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, the Midlands, Masvingo and southern parts of Manicaland.
The department said conditions were expected to become more stable across the southern half of the country on Wednesday as cool, moist south-easterly winds set in.
However, thunderstorms were forecast to shift northwards, affecting Harare Metropolitan Province, northern parts of Manicaland and all Mashonaland provinces through Thursday, with possible localised heavy downpours.
The MSD warned residents to be alert to potential lightning strikes, flash floods in low-lying areas, rivers and urban centres, as well as strong winds that could damage crops, uproot trees and affect buildings and other structures.
The department also cautioned that rainfall during grain filling and maturity could reduce grain quality, while high moisture levels could increase the risk of fungal diseases.
As part of its safety recommendations, the MSD urged people to seek shelter inside a house or building when lightning flashes, avoid standing under trees or near tall objects, and postpone sailing during storms.
Residents were also advised to secure loose items, mend rooftops and trim loose-hanging branches to minimise potential damage from strong winds.
The department further encouraged communities to prepare for possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases and ensure that drinking water remained clean and safe.
Farmers were urged to protect livestock by providing adequate shelter and bedding, while keeping animals safe during adverse weather conditions.
The MSD said daily updates would be provided through its official communication platforms and urged residents to follow guidance issued by the Department of Civil Protection.
The advisory was issued jointly with the Department of Civil Protection as part of efforts to keep the public informed and prepared for the anticipated weather conditions.