Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) has announced Chiperoni weather characterised by chilly and windy conditions associated with rain drizzle that will be locally heavy from 12 to 15 May and strong Mwera winds expected in the same period over Lake Malawi and other lakes.
Fishers and lake users are, therefore, asked to take extra precautions.
According to a DCCMS statement issued on Monday and signed by its Director, Dr Lucy Mtilatila, strong Mwera winds are likely to reach up to a maximum speed of 50km/h, potentially resulting in the formation of water waves over Lake Malawi and other lakes.
The statement says from Friday May 16 to Sunday May 18, the public should expect partly cloudy and warm conditions due to the influence of cool and moist south easterly air mass.
As such, DCCMS has issued several safety advisories.
“As we are in the winter season, stay warm and avoid using charcoal burners in poorly ventilated houses. When strong winds occur, fishers and all other lake users should take extra precaution.
“During foggy conditions, drivers should exercise caution due to reduced visibility,” reads the statement in part.
In the month of May, normal minimum temperatures are expected over many areas such as Rumphi, Lilongwe, Nkhata Bay and Likoma, as Mzimba is expected to be warmer than normal.
The statement has also indicated minimum temperatures within the range of 11.6 – 18.9 degrees celsius.
Executive Director for Managing Rainwater Association of Malawi (MRAM), Edmond Kwasula, said people should examine their infrastructure to ensure they withstand strong Mwera winds apart from ensuring no obstruction on their drainage and waterways.
“People should stay away from rivers and streams as they may rise rapidly and become dangerous. Avoid travelling and driving during stormy weather and strong winds as this can result into property and livelihood destruction,” Kwasula said.
Last week, Malawi experienced Chiperoni weather conditions with isolated light to moderate rains over many areas.
The lowest minimum temperature anomaly of 2.8 degrees celsius below average was observed at Ntaja Meteorological Office in Machinga on May 7, and the maximum water wave of 3.99 meters was observed in Nkhata Bay on May 4, 2025.
The highest reported rainfall in the past week was 79.5mm reported from Lunyangwa in Mzuzu on May 5.
