Do not panic over Cyclone Cheneso, says Met Department

The Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe has said the public should not panic over Tropical Storm Cheneso as it has no effect on Zimbabwe at the moment.

The tropical storm caused heavy rains in Madagascar where it was first reported on Thursday last week and it’s currently moving towards Mozambique.

As of yesterday, the Met Department said the tropical storm was 1 800km away from Zimbabwe’s eastern border.

The department said it was currently monitoring the storm and will update the public on its movement.

“At the moment the tropical storm has no effect on Zimbabwe. Depending on their positions, tropical storms may cause dry spells, heavy rains or have no effect in Zimbabwe.”

It said numerous thunderstorms were expected across the country until Thursday.

“Heavy rainfalls are anticipated in areas along the central watershed and over high ground.”

The department urged the public to seek information and clarity from the Met Department and avoid sharing false information on social media, which can cause panic.

“The MSD has read communication on social media warning of flooding in the eastern districts of Zimbabwe and wishes to dispel the contents of the communication making rounds on social media,” said the department.

Since last week, the country has been receiving heavy downpours which have left infrastructure damaged.

Some houses and schools have been damaged with Bindura recording storms of above average intensity.

The provincial hospital and laboratory roofs were blown off and the fence around the Government complex flattened. *H-Metro*