By Jeff Kapembwa
Forecasts by NGA AgroClimate Tech, a weather analysis agency, says Zambia is gearing up for an active weather pattern this week, starting on Friday.
According to predictions, by Friday, the country will sit right at the meeting point of four different air masses, the westerlies, easterlies, northeasterlies, and southeasterlies.
This atmospheric convergence is expected to spark widespread heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across much of the country.
Before then, seasonal rainfall activity will begin substantially on Wednesday, first appearing in the western parts of Zambia, then expanding into Northern provinces on Thursday, and covering most areas by Friday.
This rainfall surge is being powered by a strong subtropical high-pressure system (1027hPa) positioned to the south, and the converging winds.
Its influence will not stop at Zambia’s borders, neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Malawi, and South Africa will also feel the impact, with moderate to heavy rainfall expected even through the weekend.
Farmers and communities are advised to prepare for wet conditions, as the seasonal rains are officially setting in, and at above normal rate, the statement says.
Initially, local weather experts predict normal to above normal rainfall commencing early December but the onset of the easterlies in Zambia, could result in several rainfall and damage to property.