Meteorological Services Zimbabwe warns the general public about a heatwave which will start from 5 to 12 March with temperatures rising as high as 41 degrees.

In a statement the Met Department said the public should expect extremely hot temperatures and people should stay hydrated as the heatwave across the country could cause health related complications.

"Extremely hot temperatures are expected so people should stay hydrated as the heatwave can cause health complications including sudden death for vulnerable citizens, ''Met Department. It went on to say this is as a result of wind flow that originates from low pressure system at the surface of the atmosphere.

These extremely hot conditions are caused by a combination of factors such as the persistent northerly air mass or the wind flow that originates from the low-pressure system at the surface of the atmosphere and a high-pressure system at upper levels with a strong subsiding motion that prevents the heat from escaping into the outer atmosphere,'' Met Department.

In addition to these unbearable hot conditions, thunderstorms are expected to occur over some areas of the country,'' said the Met Department.

The Met Department advised people to drink more water or any hydrating fluids, avoid prolonged stays in the sun, stay in shaded spaces and wear wide-brimmed hats or carry umbrellas.