Farmers in Ethiopia's autumn-growing regions can breathe a sigh of relief as the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI) forecasts light to moderate rainfall over the next two weeks.
This welcome precipitation is anticipated to bolster agricultural activities currently underway in the Central, Northeast, Southwest, and Southern areas of the country, vital for autumn harvests.
According to the EMI, meteorological factors conducive to rainfall are expected to intensify, particularly in the South, Northeast, East, Central, Southwest, Rift Valley, and neighbouring regions.
The anticipated moisture is crucial to offset the effects of dry summer conditions and high evaporation rates that have led to soil moisture deficits, the Institute noted.
However, the forecast carries a dual message, while the rains are predicted to be beneficial, the EMI also warns of soaring temperatures in several regions. Gambella, Afar, Somali, Benishangul-Gumuz, and West Amhara can expect maximum temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, with some areas potentially surpassing a scorching 40 degrees Celsius.
The interplay of rainfall and high humidity in the northeast, central, southern, and western regions is expected to create favourable conditions for autumn agricultural endeavours.
Despite the potential challenges posed by the heat, the forecast offers a degree of optimism for farmers who have been grappling with dry conditions.
The EMI advises farmers, pastoralists, and relevant authorities to heed the guidance provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasizing the importance of implementing precautionary measures to mitigate any adverse impacts and maximize the benefits of the anticipated rainfall.
The coming weeks will be a crucial period for Ethiopia's autumn agriculture, demanding careful management and preparedness in the face of both opportunity and challenge.