Citizens across the country are being urged to take proactive measures to prevent potential blazes that could devastate natural landscapes, as the prolonged dry season could lead to forest fires, Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA) has warned.

"All citizens are urged to exercise caution and refrain from activities that could potentially spark fires,” the RFA said in a statement on Tuesday, June 18.

"During this dry period, forest fires can spread rapidly. It is imperative for every Rwandan to avoid actions such as smoking near forests, careless disposal of cigarettes, uncontrolled charcoal burning, and chaotic honey harvesting practices.”

ALSO READ: Public warned against starting wildfires as blaze guts part of Nyungwe forest

Parents are advised to supervise their children, particularly those engaging in activities like outdoor roasting, as their actions can inadvertently lead to fires reaching forested areas, added the warning.

"The consequences of forest fires are profound, devastating ecosystems and endangering wildlife. Moreover, the smoke emitted during fires poses serious health risks, resulting in respiratory illnesses as it affects the quality of the air.”

The Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA) looks to expand forested areas and ensure their sustainable management.

ALSO READ: Wild fire leaves Rutsiro forest in ruins

These efforts include extensive tree planting programmes along roadsides, riverbanks, and lakeshores, as well as promoting indigenous and agroforestry trees, and the use of improved cooking stoves to reduce dependence on firewood and promote alternative-making methods to conserve forests.

According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment, forests cover 30.4 per cent of Rwanda’s land area, with significant contributions to both biodiversity and the economy.

Some parts of the country to face above-average temperature

The expected maximum temperature will range between 22 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius from June to August and is slightly above normal temperature, according to Meteo Rwanda.

The forecast, from June to August, is used in different economic sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, environmental management including water resources management, and forest fire control given that high temperatures during the dry season could lead to forest fires.

The long-term average temperature of the June to August rainfall season across the country ranges between 20 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius, the weather forecaster explained.

Parts of Bugarama plain are expected to record higher maximum temperature compared to other parts of the country which will range between 30 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

The plain of Bugarama is the lowest and hottest area of the country lying at an altitude of 900 m above sea level.

ALSO READ: Meteo Rwanda explains rare heatwave in Kigali

Eastern Province, eastern parts of Kamonyi, Ruhango, Nyanza, and Gisagara districts, Kigali City will also experience warmer conditions with maximum temperature ranging between 28 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

The parts of highland areas including the Volcanoes National Park are expected to record lower maximum temperature than other parts of the country.

The expected minimum temperature will range between 10 degrees Celsius and 18 degrees Celsius across the country which is above the normal minimum temperature.

ALSO READ: Number of rainy days in Rwanda decreases by 45

Musanze, Burera, Nyabihu, and a few parts of Rubavu and Gakenke districts will be cooler than other parts of the country from June to August 2024 with temperatures varying between 10 degrees Celsius and 12 degrees Celsius.