By The Arusha News Reporter
Northern Tanzania is set for warmer days with occasional scattered showers this December, according to forecast from a number of global weather tracking agencies.
Forecast from at least three agencies, Weather Atlas, Weather 2 Travel, Weather and Climate and Global Highlights, daytime temperatures in Arusha shall hover at around 27°C while nights will be cool down at about 10°C, chilly enough to require warm bedding and clothing.
Being the tail end of the short-rains season, scattered showers are possible in December, mainly in the first half of the month. Farmers can take advantage of the remaining rains to plant quick-maturing crops such as maize, beans and vegetables, says local agronomist Dr Esther Mwakyussa.
“This is a good period to prepare the soil for short-season crops that can be harvested before the long dry season,” she noted.
Kilimanjaro Region will also see warmer conditions in the lower areas with temperatures up to 31°C. On the higher slopes, nights shall remain fairly cooler or even cold for tropical weather. Light rain could occur in the forests, offering picturesque views for trekkers as the landscape turns a beautiful greenery. For farmers in the lower zones, crops like tomatoes, cabbages and green peppers thrive better during the month.
“Farmers should ensure irrigation in areas where rainfall is minimal to avoid crop stress,” advised an agronomist. In Manyara, daytime highs are expected to reach between 32°C and 33°C while there could be occasional showers early in the month, with sunshine likely to increase later. Reports reaching The Arusha News said farmers there were busy planting cassava and sweet potatoes, which do well in warm and partially wet conditions.
Along coastal Tanga, the weather is expected to be hot and humid, with daytime temperatures reaching 32°C and dropping to still sweaty 25°C at night. Days shall mainly be characterised by scattered showers punctuated by sunny periods. Farmers along the coast are advised to focus on pulses, maize and short-season vegetables, taking advantage of humidity for crop growth.
