BY THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER
Residents of Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Manyara should prepare for cold weather this August, according to the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA).
TMA said temperatures in the north-eastern highlands will be relatively warm during the day but moderately cold at night. Minimum temperatures are expected to range between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius with some elevated areas recording temperatures below 10 degrees, enough to qualify as wintry weather.
The public is advised to wear warm, layered clothing, including jackets, sweaters, socks and closed shoes, especially during early mornings and evenings. A light raincoat or umbrella could also be useful.
Farmers should not rush to plant rain-fed maize, beans or other major crops after isolated showers as the rainfall may not be sufficient to sustain crops. Instead, they should prepare land, conserve water and consult agricultural extension officers.
Farmers with reliable irrigation may plant suitable vegetables and horticultural crops.
Livestock keepers should conserve hay, crop residues and water as pasture conditions may decline. Animals should be protected from cold winds and provided with clean water and adequate feed. The agency advised the public to continue following daily and ten-day weather forecasts for updates.
