A delayed, erratic start with initial dry conditions in October- November is expected, while prospects improve nationally from December onwards, though northern areas may dry out again later in the season. Relatedly, temperatures will be warmer than average in October and November, followed by a cooler December. Thus overall, for the first half of the season, the southern and western regions are anticipated to receive normal to above-normal rain; while the northern provinces will have normal to below-normal rainfall.

The upcoming 2025-26 rainfall season for Zimbabwe is projected to be heavily influenced by a strong trend towards a negative Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), while the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is expected to remain in a neutral state. This specific combination of global climate drivers creates a forecast of significant spatial and temporal variability. The season is anticipated to have a delayed and erratic start, with October and November likely to be drier than normal, particularly in across the country. This initial dry phase is expected to give way to improved rainfall prospects from December onwards.