By Our Reporter
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) Southern Highlands Zone has issued a warning to fishermen on Lake Nyasa in Kyela District, Mbeya Region, about severe weather conditions.
These include hailstorms, strong winds, and lightning, which could endanger fishermen and their boats.
Elias Lipiki, the manager of TMA Southern Highlands, spoke with Mwananchi Digital regarding the situation.
He explained that heavy rains started in late December 2024 and are expected to continue until May 2025.
During this period, the region will experience storms with lightning, strong winds, and large waves. These waves have the potential to capsize boats and harm fishermen.
"Initially, the rains were delayed and started at the end of December 2024. They are expected to end in early May 2025.
During this period, the lake area will experience storms that will cause large thunderclouds, strong winds, and waves capable of overturning boats and causing harm to fishermen," Lipiki said.
Lipiki emphasized the importance of fishermen following official weather forecasts rather than relying on traditional methods of predicting sea conditions.
He warned that while many fishermen use local knowledge, these methods are not safe. The TMA’s weather reports offer more reliable information to protect people’s lives.
"This is a very dangerous time for fishermen to go out to sea due to the strong winds and large waves, along with lightning, which could cause boat capsizing, deaths, injuries, and destruction of homes," Lipiki said.
The TMA manager explained that storms usually occur in the early morning, from dawn until around 9:00 AM, lasting about 30 minutes on the water.
The main cause of these storms is the presence of large thunderclouds over the lake, particularly in the Mbeya Region.
Lipiki also noted that while the heavy rains benefit agriculture by providing enough water for crops, they present challenges for contractors working on construction projects, such as roads. The ongoing rainfall could delay their work.
"Contractors involved in road construction and other projects need to take extra precautions during this period as the heavy rains could disrupt their work," Lipiki advised.
Additionally, Lipiki warned that rivers in the region have started to swell. The rising water levels could lead to flooding in low-lying areas.
"Many river areas are showing increased water levels, and there is a possibility that the depth will continue to rise due to the ongoing rains," he said.
To help keep the public informed and safe, TMA is working on a plan to send weather updates via mobile phones. This will allow fishermen and residents to take necessary precautions ahead of severe weather.
TMA urges everyone to stay informed and take the appropriate steps to stay safe during this period of severe weather.