The expected rainfall from March to May may lead to extreme weather events such as flooding, landslides, strong winds and other extreme weather-related events in some parts of the country, according to Rwanda Meteorology Agency.
Reports indicate Tuesday that heavy rains of between 500-600 millimetres are expected in southern parts of Nyaruguru district, in Musanze and most parts of Burera districts. It is also expected over northern parts of Nyabihu and Gakenke districts.
Rainfall of between 400 and 500 millimetres is expected in most parts of Northern, Southern and Western Provinces, as well as in western parts of Nyarugenge and in north western parts of Gasabo district.
The rainfall between 300-400 millimetres is expected over most parts of Eastern Province save for Nyagatare and Gatsibo districts and southern parts of Kirehe district; Kicukiro district, southern parts of Gasabo and eastern parts of Nyarugenge district.
The rainfall below 300 millimetres is expected in the eastern parts of Nyagatare and Gatsibo districts and a small portion of southern part of Kirehe district.
“Agriculture extensionists should encourage farmers to plant fast maturing varieties and adopt agricultural practices that increase or improve soil water holding capacity,” said the weather watchdog
In addition it advised public institutions, NGOs, the private sector and the general public, especially farmers, to take note of the forecast and use it to make informed decisions regarding crop planting, harvesting and management practices.
“Based on the seasonal prediction of March, April and May 2023 (2023B Agricultural season), stakeholders in agriculture sector are advised to fasttrack agricultural activities including land preparation, selection of suitable crops, seeds and fertilizers delivery to the farmers, timely planting according to the suggested dates,” says the the forecast released on Friday, February 24.
CU/APA