Herald Reporter
The Meteorological Services Department has predicted heavy rains beginning Friday, following a lengthy dry spell.

Speaking at the World Meteorological Day commemorations in Harare yesterday, the Met Department’s head of services, Mr Tich Zinyemba, said necessary precautions should be taken as the downpours will cover most parts of the country.

“Indications are that there is a likelihood of the country experiencing widespread rains and thunderstorms, starting from the south and then spreading northwards. It is expected that rainfall amounts of as much as 50 millimetres are possible in 24 hours,” said Mr Zinyemba.

He said a cloud system currently affecting South Africa and Botswana was expected to spread to Zimbabwe.

The wave of cloud is expected to affect Matabeleland provinces by Friday afternoon.

“It is advised that these storms may be accompanied by violent lightning, damaging winds and hail.

“People are warned not to park their vehicles under exotic trees, taking shelter in make-shift houses, driving under heavy rains or do anything that might expose them to danger,” Mr Zinyemba said.

The wet spell is expected until Wednesday next week.