The Zambian Meteorological Department (ZMD) has warned Zambian farmers to cover their crop as more sporadic rain is expected.

The warning followed unexpected rain this weekend over large parts of Zambia. Lusaka experienced hailstorms.

“Farmers must secure their crop right away, whether it is harvested or not, as it is not known when the rain will stop,” said Victor Bupe, ZMD senior meteorological officer.

Bupe said Lusaka, Muchinga, Northern, Central, Luapula, Copperbelt and Eastern provinces are likely to be affected.

Dispelling speculation that the hail heralded snow, Bupe said the sporadic showers are the result of a cold-front over South Africa’s north-eastern coast. It is tilted toward the north, affecting Zambia and other countries north of the Limpopo River.

“While temperatures are expected to drop during the day, with chances of rain and windy conditions in the affected areas, there will be no snowfall,” Bupe said.

On Sunday, hailstorms left parts of Lusaka covered in white sheets of ice, leading to speculation of snow this winter.