Stakeholders urged to use the current weather forecast for strategic planning

7 March 2025, 10:11 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Ministry of Water and Environment has come up and clarified on why most parts of the country are too hot. The clarification was made by the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, Dr. Okidi Alfred, during the media briefing at Uganda the media Centre, Kampala, yesterday. “Uganda is currently experiencing dry conditions with high temperatures. This situation is expected to persist until mid-March, after cooling will occur as the rains begin.” He said.

According to the ministry, unusual temperatures are due to a combination of factors including the dry season. The primary cause of the high temperatures is the ongoing dry season. The period from December to February is typically dry across Uganda, and gradually decline from early March-May when rainfall season begins, position of the sun; during February, the sun moves closer to the equator, which runs through Uganda. It is directly overhead at the equator twice a year, on March 21st and September 23rd. As the sun approaches this position in February, solar radiation increases, leading to higher surface temperatures, among other factors.

The ministry therefore advises people to stay hydrated by taking plenty of water during day, limiting physical activity by avoiding excessive exercise during hot periods, staying indoors or in a shade, reducing exposure to direct sunlight especially during peak hours and taking frequent showering. Okidi says that to mitigate risks and maximize the benefits of the expected rainfall, something must be done. “Farmers should plant at the onset of the rains and prioritize high yielding drought resistant crop varieties. Techniques such as mulching, contour bunding and drainage channels should be adopted. Communities should collect and store rain water for future use. Farmers should regularly monitor fields and report out breaks to extension officers and authorities should ensure urban drainage systems are cleared to prevent flooding, and they should be advised on safe water use to prevent waterborne diseases such as typhoid” Okidi said.

Additionally, the ministry urged all stakeholders to use the forecast. “I urge all stakeholders to use this forecast for strategic planning and informed decision-making to enhance food security, protect livelihood and strengthen climate resilience. My ministry will continue to provide timely weather updates to guide national and community level planning and decision-making” He concluded.