The Rwanda Meteorological Department has predicted that some parts of the country will experience above-normal rainfall pattern as the rainy season sets in – from September through December.We have experienced disastrous rains before and everyone needs to pay attention to the weather forecast.There are still uncertainties about the next rainy season, with the El Nino condition in tropical pacific evolving, which is influencing the weather in the region, including the positive sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies that are associated with increased likelihood of seasonal rainfall over most parts of the country.We have been told that heavy rains and flooding in low lying areas could be an issue.Local leaders should plan ahead to protect residents living in low lying areas, in the districts of Musanze, Nyabihu, Rubavu, Burera and Bugesera, which are usually flooded by River Nyabarongo.A lot of lessons were learned previously when heavy rains and floods left close to ten people dead and about 170 homes destroyed in Rubavu.Over 400 people were rendered homeless as a result of heavy downpour.In the latest incident, at least one person died from flooding after heavy rains, last week, in Rubavu district, with several houses destroyed.Let’s make sure we pay heed to the advice from weather forecasters and get as prepared as we can to avoid potential dire consequences.
