Staff Reporter
Most parts of Zimbabwe are expected to receive rainfall this week, as the remnants of Cyclone Chido, which made landfall in Mozambique and Malawi, move into the country.
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has confirmed that the anticipated cyclone, now downgraded to a tropical depression will bring moderate to significant rains, particularly in eastern and northern parts of the country.
In an interview with the media yesterday, MSD Head of Forecast, James Ngoma, said the cyclone has significantly weakened after crossing Northern Mozambique and drifting southwards into Malawi.
“Cyclone Chido made landfall near Pemba in Northern Mozambique and continued its path southwards, weakening as it moved across land. It is now classified as a tropical depression and will bring light to moderate showers to eastern Zimbabwe,” he explained.
Regions expected to receive rainfall include northern parts of Mashonaland East, Manicaland, and sections of Mashonaland Central, where accumulations could range between 30 to 50 mm.
Ngoma added, “Moderate downpours are likely in these areas, while Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South can expect widespread thundershowers throughout the week.”
Earlier forecasts had raised concerns about the potential severity of Tropical Cyclone Chido across Southern Africa, with an estimated 2.5 million people at risk in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros.
The cyclone made its strongest impact in Mozambique before gradually losing strength as it moved inland.
Though downgraded, its remnants are still expected to influence Zimbabwe’s weather patterns.
Farmers and residents in affected regions have been urged to take precautions and prepare for localised heavy showers, which could bring relief to drought-hit areas, but may also result in flash flooding in vulnerable low-lying regions.
The MSD continues to monitor the system and has encouraged the public to stay informed through official weather updates.
While Cyclone Chido no longer poses a severe threat, its rainfall will provide much-needed relief to many parts of Zimbabwe still grappling with dry conditions exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon.
Authorities have called for vigilance as the country navigates the remainder of the rainy season amid evolving weather patterns across the region.
