Tanzania warns extreme cold, dry spells could cause outbreaks of pneumonia
What you need to know:
- The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) says cold and dry spells could usher in outbreaks of pneumonia and cold-related illnesses in the upcoming dry season
Dar es Salaam. As the dry season in Tanzania starts in June to August 2024, health authorities are sounding alarms about potential outbreaks of diseases like pneumonia and other cold-related illnesses.
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) on Monday, May 27, issued warnings highlighting the health risks anticipated during this period.
Alongside concerns about the onset of moderate cold and dust-triggered eye diseases, TMA emphasises the need for preventive measures, urging communities to safeguard against the health impacts of the forthcoming dry conditions.
"We advise taking health precautions to protect the community against diseases that may be caused by cold and dust," the statement said.
Due to the expected dry conditions in many areas during this period, TMA recommends careful use of water and pasture to reduce the anticipated impact.
"Farmers are advised to cultivate vegetables and root crops such as potatoes in moist areas and areas expected to receive rainfall during this period," it said.
Expected conditions
During this period, the southern regions of Morogoro, Mbeya, Songwe, Iringa, and Njombe are expected to experience moderate to severe cold.
"More cold periods are expected to occur in July, where the minimum temperature is expected to be between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius, and in high-altitude areas, it is expected to be below 7 degrees Celsius," said TMA.
For the regions of Mwanza, Mara, Geita, Kagera, Shinyanga, and Simiyu, they will experience moderate cold with temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
For Dar es Salaam, the Coast, Tanga, areas in the northern part of the Morogoro Region, and the islands of Unguja and Pemba, the temperature will range between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius.
According to the report, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Manyara are expected to have temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
The regions of Tabora, Rukwa, Katavi, and Kigoma, according to TMA, will have temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius.
In the Central Zone, the regions of Singida and Dodoma will have temperatures between 11 and 17 degrees Celsius.
TMA stated that the Southern Coastal Zone, including the regions of Mtwara and Lindi, will reach temperatures of 17 to 22 degrees Celsius.
In the Ruvuma Region, moderate to severe cold is expected, with temperatures between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius.
