The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) of Zimbabwe has warned of widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall expected across most parts of the country from Sunday 15 February through Thursday 19 February 2026.
The forecast indicates that several provinces, particularly along the Eastern Highlands and parts of Mashonaland, could receive significant downpours, while some southern areas may start with brief morning drizzle before temperatures rise later in the day.
Zimbabwe Weather Report For Friday
According to MSD, scattered thunderstorms were recorded in most provinces, except Masvingo and southern Manicaland.
The highest rainfall totals were recorded at:
- Mhondoro – 39mm
- Kutasa – 34mm
- Wedza – 24mm
- Harare (Belvedere) – 22mm
These rainfall figures show that central and northern regions are currently under stronger moisture influence.
Weather Patterns to Expect This Week
Meteorologists say mornings will generally be mild and cloudy, with temperatures rising into warm afternoons. Thunderstorm activity is expected to intensify over northern provinces as a high-pressure system over the south-east coast of South Africa drives cool south-easterly air into Zimbabwe.
This interaction between warm surface air and cooler inflow is what enhances storm development.
City Weather Outlook Snapshot (15–19 February 2026)
Harare: Frequent thundershowers through the week, with heavier rain on Monday and Thursday. Warm afternoons, mild mornings.
Bulawayo: Showers early in the week, clearing into sunnier and hotter conditions from Tuesday onward.
Mutare: Higher rainfall totals expected, especially Sunday and Monday, with persistent cloud cover.
Gweru: Scattered storms Sunday to Tuesday, improving mid-week with more sunshine.
Gwanda: Light showers early, turning hot and dry from Wednesday.
Masvingo: Morning drizzle Monday, otherwise warming significantly mid-week.
Bindura: Consistent rain activity Sunday and Monday, easing later in the week.
Chinhoyi: Regular thunderstorms early in the week, gradually reducing by Thursday.
Kadoma: Showers Sunday and Monday, brief sunny breaks mid-week.
Kwekwe: Light rain early, clearing Wednesday before isolated showers return Thursday.
Marondera: Active thunderstorms Sunday and Monday, with intermittent rain later in the week.
Lupane: Rain at the start of the week, turning sunny and hotter by Wednesday and Thursday.
Impact and Safety Advisory
The MSD warns that thunderstorms may bring:
- Lightning strikes
- Localised flash flooding
- Temporary road visibility challenges
Residents are advised to seek shelter during lightning activity, avoid crossing flooded rivers, limit outdoor exposure during peak heat hours, and stay hydrated.
Update on Cyclone Gezani
The Meteorological Services Department says Tropical Cyclone Gezani will not make landfall in Zimbabwe, but its influence is expected to affect the weather this week. The storm, currently active in the Southwest Indian Ocean after hitting Madagascar, is drawing moisture back toward the region and may help fuel rain and thunderstorms from 15–17 February, even though it stays well offshore. The MSD continues to monitor Gezani closely and urges caution as heavier rainfall moves in.
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