Storm Season Looms: MSD Urges Zimbabwe to Prepare for Cyclone Threat
Zimbabwe is on alert for potential tropical cyclones during the 2025/26 rainy season, as the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) urges flood-prone communities to prepare for possible evacuations amid forecasts of heavy rainfall and erratic weather patterns.
The warning follows projections of a weak La Niña weather system expected between October 2025 and March 2026, which could bring normal to above-average rainfall across the country.
According to the Famine Early Warning System Network (Fews Net), the anticipated precipitation may lead to flooding and waterlogging, especially in areas with a history of such disasters.
MSD officials say eastern Zimbabwe is most at risk, although the exact intensity and spread of the cyclones remain uncertain.
“From what we are seeing, the high temperatures there are going to be a few cyclones.
“We don’t yet know their intensity or spread, but we anticipate their occurrence due to the energy present in the atmosphere,” said MSD director Rebecca Manzou.
The department also forecasts a delayed and erratic start to the season, with dry spells expected in October and November.
Rainfall is likely to improve from December, though northern provinces may dry out again later.
“Temperatures will be warmer than average in October and November, followed by a cooler December,” MSD noted.
Southern and western regions are expected to receive normal to above-average rainfall, while northern areas may experience normal to below-average precipitation.
Speaking to NewsDay, Manzou emphasized the importance of following warnings from the Department of Civil Protection (DCP), particularly in vulnerable areas like Muzarabani.
“During Cyclone Idai, people refused to leave their homes. If you’re told to move to a protected area, do it — you cannot decide on your own which place is safe,” she warned.
Manzou also urged caution when interpreting seasonal climate patterns.
“For Zimbabwe, La Niña usually brings more rainfall but every year is different.
“La Niña doesn’t always mean heavy rain, and El Niño doesn’t always mean drought,” she explained.
To strengthen early warning systems and improve mobility, the World Food Programme (WFP) has donated three Toyota Land Cruisers to MSD.
WFP deputy country director Billy Mwiinga said the vehicles will help MSD teams access remote areas, gather data, and deliver timely weather alerts.
“These vehicles are more than transport — they’re a real investment in our growing partnership with MSD to strengthen climate services and early warning systems in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Manzou welcomed the donation, recalling the logistical challenges faced during Cyclone Idai.
“For MSD, there came a time when we did not have vehicles — specifically during Tropical Cyclone Idai. For us to hear that we are getting three vehicles is like Christmas has come very early,” she added.
The vehicles will be used to maintain automatic weather stations and conduct fieldwork in remote areas, enhancing the country’s preparedness for climate-related disasters.
Cyclone Idai, which struck in 2019, devastated Chimanimani district in Manicaland province, claiming around 300 lives and affecting more than half of its 135,000 residents, according to a 2021 study.
MSD is expected to provide more detailed cyclone forecasts after an upcoming meeting with the Southern African Development Community (SADC), where regional experts will assess the likelihood and potential impact of tropical cyclones across southern Africa.
