Zimbabwe sweats under extremely high temperatures

By Tatenda Dewa | Harare Bureau |

Zimbabwe experienced temperatures as high as 41 degrees Celsius on Monday, hitting records recorded in the 1960s.

Tich Zinyemba, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) senior forecaster, confirmed that most areas experienced extremely high temperatures ranging from 35 degrees Celsius to 41 degrees Celsius.

The high temperatures were forecast last week.

“The forecast went as predicated. We had anticipated high temperatures on Saturday and Sunday, but this has extended to Monday (yesterday).

“The temperatures are still high, but we expect some light showers in Matabeleland North and South, Midlands as well as Masvingo provinces tomorrow (today),” said Zinyemba.

Victoria Falls was among the hottest areas, recording 41 degrees Celsius, while Hwange hit 39 and Chinhoyi 38.

The Harare International Airport recorded 35 degrees Celsius and Chivhu 36.

Last Friday, the meteorological department urged members of the public to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the adverse weather conditions.

“People should drink lots of fluids, particularly water, avoid prolonged stay in the sun, avoid outdoor activities between 11:30am and 3:00pm and protect oneself from the sun by using umbrellas and wide-brimmed hats. The danger is extremely high for runaway fires,” said the department.

The department warned of violent storms accompanied by hail and strong winds.

Zimbabwe, like most southern African countries, experienced an El Nino-induced drought during the 2015-16 agricultural season, resulting in poor yields.

The region is likely to be affected by another weather phenomenon, La Nina, which might result in flooding and crop failure. Nehanda Radio