Cyclone Chido to Land in Zimbabwe Today
Chido's effects will likely combine with the ITCZ causing thunderstorms till 22nd December.
Cyclone Chido to Land in Zimbabwe Today
Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to make landfall in the country today, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has said.
In a statement last night, the MSD said that as Cyclone Chido continued its west-south-westward movement, its wind speed and intensity diminished due to increased friction over land.
MSD head of forecast Mr James Ngoma said the remnants of Cyclone Chido will combine with moisture from the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone, leading to widespread thunderstorms across Zimbabwe from today to December 22.
“More influence over Zimbabwe is projected to be from the cloud-band emanating from the west, through both Matabeleland provinces. This should result in widespread thunderstorms throughout the week.
“Despite the anticipation of heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm in provinces like Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, southern parts of Matabeleland North, Midlands, and Masvingo, the risk of flooding is low following a recent dry spell.
Cyclone Chido to Land in Zimbabwe Today
“However, the heat that was over Zimbabwe for much of last week, should potentially lead to these storms being violent, with lightning, strong winds, and hailstorms in certain areas.
“Provinces of particular concern include Mashonaland East, Manicaland, Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Bulawayo Metropolitan, and the southern parts of Midlands,” said Mr Ngoma.
In light of the approaching storm, local authorities and disaster management agencies are advising residents to remain vigilant and prepared for adverse weather conditions.
Cyclone Chido traversed into Mozambique early yesterday morning, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain after leaving a trail of death and destruction in France’s Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte.
According to the Mozambique Institute of Meteorology, the cyclone appeared to have intensified as it crossed the Mozambique Channel overnight to make landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba.
Violent Storms to Hit Zimbabwe as La Niña Season Begins
The cyclone brought destructive winds exceeding 200 km/hr and heavy rains with rainfall rates reaching up to 30mm per hour (roughly 30 litres per square metre every hour).
