Residents in several parts of Tanzania are facing extreme hot conditions, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has warned.
The authority says that temperatures have risen sharply in some regions, particularly in areas with two rainy seasons, due to the movement of the overhead Sun and reduced rainfall in recent months.
“The overhead Sun peaks at the end of November as it moves south towards the Tropic of Capricorn, and again in February when it moves north towards the Tropic of Cancer. This naturally raises temperatures because the Earth’s surface in these areas is closer to the Sun,” TMA explained.
Recent records show unusually high temperatures across the country. Moshi station in Kilimanjaro reported 35.7°C on November 21, 4.2°C above the long-term average for November.
Ilonga in Morogoro recorded 35.5°C on November 20, while Morogoro town saw 34.5°C on November 26. Shinyanga’s Ibadakuli station reported 33.6°C on November 14, and Dar es Salaam recorded 33.2°C on November 19 and 21.
TMA also noted that high humidity, particularly along coastal areas due to evaporation from the ocean, has made the heat feel more intense.
The authority expects December to bring periods of rainfall across many parts of the country, which should help lower temperatures, especially in regions with bimodal rainfall patterns.
The public is urged to regularly follow weather updates and severe weather warnings from TMA. People are also advised to seek guidance from relevant sectors to reduce the risks associated with extreme heat.