TMA forecasts heavy rains in over five regions

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) announced that several regions are expected to experience heavy rainfall in the upcoming rainy season, raising concerns over potential economic disruptions and increased flooding risks, particularly in flood-prone areas.

Regions forecast to experience normal to above-normal rains include Njombe, Ruvuma, Mtwara, southern and western Lindi, and southern parts of Mbeya, Iringa, and Morogoro.

TMA’s acting director-general, Mr Stanslaus Chang’a, shared this during a press briefing on the November 2024 to April 2025 rainfall season.

“Normal agricultural activities are anticipated in most areas,” Mr Chang’a said. “However, excessive soil moisture and flooding may negatively affect crops and farm management in regions expecting higher rainfall.” He also warned that elevated water levels in dams and rivers could increase the risk of flooding, especially in areas with a history of floods.

Mr Chang’a urged communities in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures. He also noted that crops such as potatoes, maize, rice, tomatoes, sesame, and beans could face heightened threats from fungal diseases and pests due to increased moisture.

For the livestock and fisheries sector, Mr Chang’a recommended proactive water and feed conservation plans. He advised pastoralists and fishermen to rely on weather forecasts and adhere to guidance from agricultural extension officers to mitigate adverse impacts and capitalise on favourable seasonal conditions.

The rainy season (msimu), which occur once annually in Tanzania’s western, central, southwestern highlands, southern regions, southern coast, and parts of Morogoro, are expected to start in late October in Kigoma, spreading gradually to other regions by November, reaching Ruvuma by December.

The second half of the season, from February to April 2025, is expected to be wetter than the initial period, which spans from November 2024 to January 2025.