There are still indications of upcoming El Nino, says TMA

The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has said that there are still indications of an impending El Nino in most parts of the country, despite recent shifts in weather patterns resulting in uneven rainfall distribution in some regions.

TMA's Weather Analyst, Joyce Mwakata, told The Citizen on Monday that the likelihood of El Nino-induced rains remains substantial, as all weather systems and patterns continue to support this prediction.

"While some regions have experienced inadequate rain distribution, others have already recorded significant rainfall, leading to damages. Notably, Tanga, Unguja, and Pemba islands have received 50 millimetres of rain so far," she said.

In August of this year, TMA forecasted that from the second week of October through January of the following year, most regions of the country would witness above-normal to normal rainfall, primarily influenced by El Nino conditions. However, up to now, only a few regions have received substantial rainfall.

"Recalling our August 25th weather outlook, especially for bi-annual rainy regions, it is evident that some areas have already begun experiencing high rainfall,” she said.

Regions expected to be impacted by El Nino include Kagera, Geita, Mwanza, Shiyanga, the southern part of Simiyu, the northern part of Kigoma, Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Pwani (including Mafia Island), and the northern part of Morogoro.

Mwakata urged the public to exercise caution and assured that TMA will maintain 24-hour monitoring of the weather, providing regular updates to the public.