Dowa District Expects Normal Rainfall from October
This forecast equips farmers and stakeholders in Dowa district with valuable insights to make informed plans for the upcoming months, impacting agriculture and daily life.
Dowa, Malawi - The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change, has forecasted generally normal rainfall amounts for Dowa district from October 2023, writes Vincent Gunde.
"The forecast suggests that Dowa district will experience different weather patterns in the coming months, impacting agriculture and daily life," stated Meteorologist Edwin Tadeyo during a stakeholder meeting in Dowa.
For the month of October, Tadeyo reported, "Most parts of Dowa are expected to have dry conditions accompanied by strong winds.
However, in November and December, there is a strong likelihood that most areas of the district are likely to receive significant rainfall amounts."
During the same meeting, Tadeyo highlighted a specific timeframe, noting, "Between mid-November and the 2nd week of December 2023, the district is expected to receive approximately 25 millimeters of rainfall. This wet season is anticipated to last for 138 days."
Regarding the onset of the rainy season, Tadeyo said, "Rainfall in Dowa district is expected to begin between the 3rd week of November and the 2nd week of December in 2023. Nonetheless, there is a possibility of below-normal rainfall in the month of February 2024."
He urged farmers and stakeholders to follow the guidance and advisories provided by the Department of Agriculture.
According to Tadeyo, "These recommendations will play a crucial role in helping farmers make informed decisions and navigate the upcoming season effectively."
Looking forward, Tadeyo provided a glimpse into the future, saying, "January 2024 is expected to bring wet conditions to Dowa, with most areas receiving rainfall totals ranging from 200 to 250 millimetres.
However, some areas, like the east of Traditional Authority Chiwere, can anticipate dry spells lasting seven days or more."
"As we move into February 2024," Tadeyo added, "most areas can expect below-average rainfall, with rainfall amounts ranging from 100 to 150 millimetres. Furthermore, in April 2024, we anticipate the cessation of rainfall from the 1st week to the 2nd week."
Expressing optimism about the dissemination of this vital information, Mercy Mpakule, the Director of Planning and Development at Dowa District Council, said, "We rely heavily on agriculture in Dowa, and the district is a key source of food for other regions. By utilising this forecast, we hope to ensure food security and potentially achieve a bumper harvest."
This forecast equips farmers and stakeholders in Dowa district with valuable insights to make informed plans for the upcoming months, impacting agriculture and daily life.