Rwandans have been warned a severe rising temperature is on its way, the weather forecast agency said.
As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, the effects are being felt in every corner of the globe, and Rwanda is no exception. With its unique geography and position near the equator, Rwanda experiences relatively stable temperatures throughout the year.
However, recent trends indicate a noticeable increase in temperature, leading to concerns about the impact on both the environment and the population.
According to Rwanda Weather Forecast Agency “Meteo Rwanda” the country will experience unusually high temperatures in the next three months.
“June-July-August is the major dry season for the country where the expected rainfall is less than other seasons,” the Agency said in a statement yesterday.
“The expected temperatures are slightly above the normal temperature of June July, and August, and the minimum temperature is expected to increase compared to maximum temperature,” the Agency added.
Rwanda has been experiencing a gradual rise in temperatures over the past few decades – a trend that is expected to continue in the coming years.
This increase, according to the Weather Forecast Agency, is mainly attributed to a variety of factors, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and urbanization.
The agency said the maximum expected temperature will rise between 22°C to 32°C (Degrees Celsius) against a minimum temperature range of 20°C to 20°C.
As a result, the country is facing more frequent and intense heat waves, posing significant challenges to the population and ecosystems.
The western part of Rwanda – Bugarama region, in particular, will take the lion’s share of the rising temperature followed by the Easter part of the country, Meteo Rwanda said.
One of the most immediate concerns associated with rising temperatures is the threat to public health. High temperatures can exacerbate existing health conditions, such as respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases, and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and dehydration.
The agricultural sector, which forms the backbone of Rwanda’s economy, is also vulnerable to the effects of rising temperatures. Increased heat and changes in rainfall patterns can disrupt crop cycles, reduce yields, and threaten food security.
In response to these challenges, the Rwandan government has been implementing various measures to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures and build resilience against climate change. These initiatives include, among others, investments in reforestation efforts, and the promotion of climate-smart agriculture practices.
