ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - The IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Center has forecasted a decrease in rainfall across the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA) in the upcoming week, compared to the levels observed in the past few weeks. However, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in certain regions.

According to Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), areas in northern Somalia, southwestern Kenya, and northern to central Tanzania are anticipated to experience heavy rainfall. In contrast, most other parts of the region are expected to see a general decline in precipitation.

The forecast indicates that heavy rainfall, exceeding 200mm, is likely to occur in isolated regions of Burundi and Tanzania. Meanwhile, moderate rainfall ranging from 50-200mm is expected in western and southern Uganda, parts of southern South Sudan, northern and southern Somalia, western and eastern Ethiopia, southwestern Kenya, and most areas of Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania.

Light rainfall, less than 50mm, is predicted in parts of central to southern South Sudan, southern Ethiopia, and most regions of Kenya and Somalia. The Center also anticipates dry conditions in Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, and the northern parts of Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya.

Temperature forecasts suggest moderate to high conditions, with expected ranges between 20-32?, in most parts of southern to northeastern Sudan, South Sudan, central to northern Uganda, northern and eastern Kenya, Tanzania, Djibouti, and most of Somalia. Meanwhile, milder temperatures, less than 20?, are expected in parts of northwestern Sudan, northern to central Ethiopia, central to western Kenya, northern Somalia, and western regions of Rwanda and Burundi.

This weather outlook is crucial for planning and preparedness in the Greater Horn of Africa, a region that often faces climatic challenges impacting agriculture, water resources, and overall livelihoods.