By Charles Mkoka
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has released its forecast for the 2024 Vuli rainfall season, predicting significant climate changes that will impact various regions across the country.
Acting Director of TMA, Dr. Lasislaus Chang’aa, announced that the Vuli rains are expected to begin in the fourth week of September, starting in the western parts of Lake Victoria.
These rains are anticipated to last until the fourth week of December, tapering off with lighter showers in other regions.
The report highlighted an unusual pattern for December, with higher-than-normal temperatures and intensified rainfall expected.
Dr. Chang’aa warned of substantial consequences, including reduced soil moisture and declining water levels in rivers and dams nationwide.
TMA is urging the public to take necessary precautions against the potential outbreak of vector-borne and waterborne diseases, given the risk of water contamination.
Coastal regions and their hinterlands, including northern Morogoro, Pwani (Mafia Island), Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and the isles of Unguja and Pemba, are forecasted to receive below-average rainfall.
In the northeastern highlands, which include Arusha, Manyara, and Kilimanjaro, rains are expected to arrive late, starting from the third week of October and continuing until the last week of December.
These areas are likely to experience less rainfall than usual.
Despite the overall expectation of suppressed rainfall, TMA noted the potential for extreme weather events, including intense, short-duration rainstorms during the season.
The authority emphasized the importance of staying updated with their daily, ten-day, and monthly forecasts, as they continue to provide detailed weather predictions on a large scale.
In a recent meeting held on August 19, TMA collaborated with experts from various sectors to discuss the upcoming season’s challenges.
Stakeholders agreed on the importance of utilizing tailored climate information provided by TMA for effective planning and execution of their activities.
TMA has issued advisories to relevant sectors, including health, disaster management, tourism, wildlife, agriculture, food security, livestock, and fisheries, urging them to prepare and raise awareness for the upcoming season.
As well, private enterprises, transportation, local authorities, and the media are encouraged to enhance awareness efforts to ensure comprehensive preparedness across all sensitive sectors.
