The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has urged the public and stakeholders to prepare early for the potential impacts of the 2026 Vuli rains, which are forecast to be above average to average across several parts of the country.
The forecast was issued by TMA Director General Dr Ladslaus Chang’a during a media briefing on the outlook for the October-December 2026 Vuli rainfall season.
According to TMA, the season is expected to be significantly influenced by a strong El Niño weather pattern, with rainfall expected to peak particularly in November.
The rains are forecast to begin between the fourth week of September and the first week of October in the Lake Victoria basin before gradually spreading to other areas in October.
Regions expected to receive above-average to average rainfall include Kagera, Geita, Mwanza, Shinyanga, Simiyu, Mara, northern Kigoma, Arusha, Manyara, Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Pwani, northern Morogoro, as well as Unguja and Pemba.
Dr Chang’a said the impact of the rains could extend beyond the normal Vuli season, with off-season rainfall expected to continue into January 2027.
In the Lake Victoria basin, rainfall is expected to start between the fourth week of September and the first week of October and continue through January 2027.
In the northern coastal areas, including Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Pwani, the rains are expected to begin during the first and second weeks of October.
TMA warned that excessive rainfall could lead to saturated soils and flooding, potentially affecting crops and agricultural infrastructure.
Increased water levels in rivers and reservoirs could also put pressure on water and energy infrastructure, while contaminated water may increase the risk of outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
Farmers have been advised to prepare their fields, plant and apply agricultural inputs on time, and take measures to prevent waterlogging, soil erosion and loss of soil fertility.
TMA also warned of a possible increase in livestock diseases, including Rift Valley fever and foot rot. Pastoralists and fishermen have been advised to closely monitor weather updates and follow guidance from relevant experts.
The transport sector could also face disruptions as heavy rainfall may damage roads, railway lines, bridges, ports and airports through flooding, soil erosion and other weather-related impacts.
TMA has urged the public and stakeholders to regularly follow official weather updates, including 24-hour, 10-day and monthly forecasts, to enable timely preparations and response.
The authority has also called on journalists to rely on official information issued by TMA and present weather forecasts in simple language to help the public understand the risks and take appropriate precautions against severe weather.
