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Auxilia Katongomara, Chronicle Reporter
THE southern parts of the country should brace for a wet spell from today, signalling the start of the rainy season, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has said.

The MSD said the rains may be accompanied by thunderstorms.

“A cloud band is expected to start entering the western and southern areas of the country from Sunday 16 October.

“This should cover much of the country by Tuesday 18 October 2016,” said MSD Chief Meteorologist Mr Tich Zinyemba.

Mr Zinyemba said the wet spell may signal the start of the rainy season.

“If the expected weather patterns behave as predicted, then the ensuing rains should be significant over the whole country.

‘‘This may signal the start of the 2016/17 rainfall season for Matabeleland North and South, Midlands as well as Masvingo provinces,” said Mr Zinyemba.

“It is also important to note that the combination of this moisture together with heat can trigger violent storms that may be accompanied by hail and damaging winds.’’

Already this month, the country has had weather related disasters in some parts.

Mr Zinyemba said the disasters are forecast to increase in frequency as the rain-bearing weather systems become more organised.

Earlier this month, property running into thousands of dollars was extensively destroyed when strong winds accompanied by light rains blew off roofs of schools, homes, churches and industrial premises in some parts of Bulawayo.

Schools and homes in Pelandaba, Mahatshula and Sizinda were damaged when strong winds hit the city. — @Auxiliak