Zimbabwe Faces Heavy Rains and Flash Flood Risk Across Multiple Provinces

Zimbabwe has issued a severe weather alert as heavy rains and flash flooding threaten multiple provinces (image source)

Harare — Authorities have issued a severe weather alert as Zimbabwe braces for heavy rains, intense thunderstorms and a heightened risk of flash flooding across multiple provinces this week. Residents and travellers have been urged to exercise extreme caution as weather conditions deteriorate.

Meteorologists warn that a moist and unstable air mass is driving widespread storm activity, with Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central among the most affected areas. Forecast models indicate that some districts could receive more than 50mm of rain within 24 hours, accompanied by dangerous lightning, strong winds and possible hail. Saturated soils, steep terrain and overwhelmed drainage systems significantly increase the risk of rapid-onset flooding, landslides and hazardous road conditions.

Civil Protection officials have activated contingency measures in coordination with local authorities. These include identifying evacuation centres, pre-positioning relief supplies, and clearing drainage systems in known flood-prone wards. Municipal teams are inspecting bridges, culverts and low-lying routes, while schools and health facilities have been instructed to review emergency response plans and communication protocols for staff and parents.

Transport and logistics operators have been advised to adjust schedules, avoid high-risk routes and ensure that drivers carry emergency contacts and first-aid kits. Farmers have been urged to protect inputs and livestock, elevate feed and seed storage above flood lines, and check fencing for storm damage. In urban centres, businesses are reviewing insurance cover and continuity plans, including securing backup power for essential operations.

Recent storms have already damaged sections of road infrastructure and public buildings, highlighting the urgency of preparedness. Urban flash flooding has been linked to blocked drainage systems and illegal dumping, prompting councils to appeal to residents and businesses to keep stormwater channels clear. In rural areas, loose soils near hillsides have increased the risk of mudslides, with community leaders mobilising ward volunteers to support vulnerable households, including the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Health officials have warned that flooding may contaminate water sources, raise the risk of diarrhoeal diseases and disrupt access to chronic medication. Clinics are preparing for increased patient volumes and advising households to boil water, maintain hygiene supplies and keep essential medicines accessible. Humanitarian partners are coordinating rapid assessments to address potential gaps in shelter, food and water services if displacement occurs.

Authorities have urged households to assemble emergency kits containing torches, batteries, dry food, drinking water, waterproof storage for documents and fully charged mobile phones. Families are also being encouraged to agree on meeting points in case of separation during storms. Community groups and ward committees have been advised to share only verified weather updates to avoid panic caused by misinformation.

As the rainy season intensifies, officials stress that early action remains the most effective protection. The next 72 hours are expected to be critical in determining the scale of impact as Zimbabwe confronts another spell of severe weather.