The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has urged Zimbabweans to take precautions against extreme heat, including drinking plenty of water, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and refraining from lighting outdoor fires, as temperatures reach 44 degrees Celsius in some areas.
According to the department’s latest weather update, Kariba recorded the country’s highest temperature of 44°C, on Wednesday, followed by Binga at 42°C, while Lupane and Tsholotsho each registered maximum temperatures of 40°C, according to the department’s latest weather report.
The MSD warned that hot conditions were expected to persist on Thursday, with generally clear skies and mild morning temperatures giving way to mostly sunny and hot conditions in the afternoon.
“Keep hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water,” the department advised, urging people to wear sunhats and use umbrellas or seek shade to minimise exposure to direct sunlight.
The department also cautioned against starting outdoor fires, warning that windy conditions could cause fires to spread rapidly.
Meanwhile, the weather outlook for Friday points to changing conditions in parts of the country, with Bulawayo Metropolitan Province and Matabeleland North and South provinces expected to experience brief cloudy periods, warm and windy conditions, and isolated thunderstorms.
Harare Metropolitan Province, northern parts of Manicaland and all Mashonaland provinces are forecast to remain mostly clear and hot in the afternoon, although brief cloudy periods may develop.
The MSD advised residents to carry raincoats where possible and remain indoors during thunderstorms. It also warned against sheltering under trees during lightning and thunderstorms because of the associated safety risks.
