Most parts of the country received substantial amounts of rainfall over the past week. According to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), heavy downpours were received mostly to the north of the main watershed on Saturday evening through to Sunday morning.
Some of the substantial rainfall amounts were 80mm, 75mm, 65mm and 55mm (Ward 6, Pennyfather, Dambatsoko and Dombo respectively, and all in Chikomba District), 49mm (Nyanga) and 40mm (Tarisa Park, Goromonzi).
The warm, humid and unstable weather that is currently affecting the country may cause more cloudiness with rain and outbreaks of thunderstorms tomorrow Monday 14 December 2020 across the whole country, the MSD said in a notice.
These storms have a propensity for localised heavier rains, especially over both Matabeleland Provinces, Bulawayo Metropolitan and parts of the Midlands Province.
Heavy rains may reduce visibility, and induce localised flash flooding in areas with poor drainage and members of the public are advised to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwaters as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to sweep away a vehicle.
The risk of lightning strikes is also high and the MSD advises the public to stay indoors during thunderstorms and if outdoors, not to shelter under or near isolated trees or shed.
It is also not advisable to ride at the back of an open truck and tractors when lightning is even afar off.