The Rwanda Meteorology Agency has issued a warning that from April 21 to 30, 2024, we’re expecting above-average rainfall across many parts of the country. Brace yourselves, especially if you’re in the Northern, Western, or Southern provinces.
Here’s the lowdown: “Between April 21 and 30, we’re looking at rainfall ranging from 40 to 180 millimeters. That’s quite a bit, especially in the north, west, and south where the usual rainfall is between 50 and 100 millimeters,” reports Meteo Rwanda.
According to the latest announcement, Rwandans can expect heavy rain on and off for about four to eight days during this period. And it won’t be evenly spread out, so keep an eye on the forecast.
The real drencher is expected in certain areas: Eastern parts of Rutsiro, Rusizi, Nyamasheke Districts; the west of Nyamagabe, Nyaruguru, Nyabihu; and the north of Rubavu, Ngororero, Musanze, and Burera could see between 160 and 180 millimeters of rain.
Meanwhile, Karongi District and other parts of Rutsiro, Ngororero, Rubavu, Nyabihu, Musanze, Burera, Rusizi, Nyamasheke, as well as the western parts of Huye and Gakenke Districts, might experience 140 to 160 millimeters of rain.
In other areas like Rulindo, Gakenke, Muhanga, the north of Gicumbi District, central parts of Huye District, and the west of Ruhango, Nyanza, and Gasabo Districts, rainfall could range between 120 and 140 millimeters.
Now, why all this rain? METEO explains that it’s due to winds moving from the southern to the northern hemisphere and increasing ocean temperatures. So, it’s a weather cocktail brewing up there.
Remember last year around this time? The heavy rains wreaked chaos, resulting in over 130 fatalities, displacing more than 10,000 people, and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and homes, especially in the Western and Northern Provinces.
Given the risks of floods, mudslides, and landslides, especially in low-lying areas, METEO Rwanda urges everyone, as well as relevant authorities, to take precautionary measures to prevent and minimize any potential disasters.
