Environment
Ethiopia Faces Sharp Shift In Weather Risks As El Niño Persists, EMI Warns Of Flash Flooding
The Reporter · 6 days ago · Read the Full Story on The Reporter
AI SUMMARY
The Ethiopian Meteorological Institute warns of contrasting weather risks across the country, including up to 75 percent above-normal rainfall in southern regions and unseasonal rains threatening crops elsewhere due to a persistent El Niño.
- Ethiopia faces contrasting weather risks with above-normal rainfall in the south and unseasonal rains threatening flash flooding, landslides, and crop damage elsewhere.
- The Ethiopian Meteorological Institute warned of rising river levels and potential flash flooding in vulnerable lowlands of southwestern, southern, and southeastern regions during the Bega season from October to January.
- Frequent precipitation in southern and southwestern areas increases landslide risks and creates conditions conducive to mosquito breeding and vector-borne diseases.
- Unseasonal rainfall expected in northern, northeastern, and eastern zones could damage mature crops ready for harvest.
- The UN Global ENSO Analysis Cell projects that a persistent El Niño event will continue with near 100 percent probability through early 2027.
- Southern Ethiopia, including the southern Somali Region, Guji, Borena, Sidama, and parts of the South Ethiopia Region, is projected to receive up to 75 percent above-normal precipitation.
- Enhanced moisture will maintain water levels in the Wabe Shebelle, Genale Dawa, and Ogaden basins.
- Agricultural meteorologist Yimer Assefa noted that unseasonal rains could provide critical late-season moisture to late-planted crops in areas recovering from Kiremt season rainfall deficits.
- Western Ethiopia has experienced severe localized dry spells alongside regional flood warnings, creating a dual risk profile of simultaneous drought and flood conditions.
- EMI and humanitarian agencies recommend pre-positioning emergency supplies, clearing urban drainage lines, establishing water-diversion channels, and accelerating crop harvesting.
- EMI is coordinating response measures with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Disaster Risk Management Commission, the Ministry of Health, and other institutional partners.
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