Zimbabwe Braces for La Niña Relief

By Cimba Shepherd Nhamo

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has reaffirmed its forecast that a La Niña event will occur in the October-November-December (OND) period, bringing much-needed relief to Zimbabwe and southern Africa.

MSD Head of Forecasting, James Ngoma, confirmed that the department’s August forecast remains unchanged, predicting normal to below-normal rainfall in the OND period, followed by normal to above-normal rainfall in the latter half of the 2024-2025 rainfall season.

Ngoma emphasized that Zimbabwe’s rainfall distribution is still favorable, citing last year’s significant rains from October 16 to 17.

Some international meteorological agencies have reported a weakening La Niña system, sparking fears of a second consecutive drought in southern Africa. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology noted that La Niña chances have decreased.

However, Ngoma clarified that MSD’s forecast aligns with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional weather outlook. SADC’s 29th Annual Southern Africa Climate Outlook Forum predicted normal to above-normal rainfall for the bulk of the region.

A successful rainfall season is crucial for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. Above-normal rainfall would support agricultural growth and food security.

The MSD will continue to provide accurate and timely weather forecasts, monitoring the situation and updating the public.

Zimbabwe looks forward to a brighter agricultural future with La Niña on the horizon.