Ghana forecasts prolonged drought and lower rainfall
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on MyJoyOnline
Illustrative image · Mwesigwa Joel · Pexels · Licence PexelsThe Ghana Meteorological Agency forecasts prolonged dry spells, below-normal rainfall and higher temperatures in several regions of Ghana. These conditions could affect agricultural production and food security through the December-January-February period, Francisca Martey said on Joy FM.
Ghana could experience prolonged dry spells and below-normal rainfall in the coming months under the continuing influence of El Niño, Francisca Martey, deputy director of research and applied meteorology at the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), warned on Joy FM on Monday 2 November. She also expects temperatures to rise.
According to GMet’s seasonal forecast for September-October-November, most regions were already expected to have below-normal rainfall, above-normal temperatures and prolonged dry spells. Francisca Martey said dry conditions and limited rainfall had been observed across much of the country since September.
The December-January-February period is expected to remain warmer and drier, coinciding with the harmattan, a season marked by dry air and dust-laden winds. Northern regions could be more affected by the rainfall deficit because of their vulnerability and importance for food production. The drying up of rainwater reserves could also reduce water available for agriculture, she warned.
The forecast continues the conditions expected through April 2027 in GMet’s hot dry season forecast, published on 31 October.
