The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) says the Southern Region is expected to remain largely dry this week, while the Central and Northern regions will continue to receive rainfall linked to thunderstorms.
In its weekly weather statement covering February 2 to February 8, 2026, the department said dry conditions will persist mainly in the south, as warm to hot and cloudy weather with thunderstorms, some locally heavy, continues over most central and northern areas.
The warning comes as crops in districts like Salima, Dedza, Balaka, Blantyre, Machinga and Mangochi, show signs of wilting following a prolonged dry spell that has exceeded seven days in some locations.
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According to the statement, the current weather pattern is influenced by a weak Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) that is mainly active over the north and at times converges with a northwesterly air mass.
“A pick-up in rainfall activity is expected from Saturday, February 7, 2026,” the statement said.
While the forecast offers relief to farmers and communities in the Central and Northern regions after weeks of uneven rainfall, the department warned that water stress is likely to persist in the south and advised farmers to conserve available soil moisture in affected areas.
The department has also cautioned the public about weather-related hazards, saying occasional strong winds are expected over all water bodies, particularly during stormy conditions.
Reviewing last week’s weather, DCCMS said most northern and central areas experienced warm to hot conditions with thunderstorms and locally heavy rainfall, while much of the south remained dry.
The highest rainfall recorded during the period was 92.1 millimeters at Chintheche Station in Nkhata Bay District on January 26.
The department has further advised people to remain indoors during thunderstorms and to avoid crossing or driving through fast-flowing or flooded waters.