BY SUKHDEV CHHATBAR
Residents across Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Manyara and Tanga have been advised to prepare for gradual change in weather next week as Tanzania moves towards the 2026 the ‘Vuli’ or short rains season.
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) Director General (DG), Dr Ladislaus Chang’a, said isolated rains were expected in parts of Arusha, Manyara, Kilimanjaro and Tanga early this week followed by a transition towards more frequent rainfall as October approached.
Dr Chang’a said the 2026 Vuli season was expected to be strongly influenced by El Niño, with rainfall likely to be “above average to average” across the northern coast and north-eastern highlands.
Rainfall is expected to spread gradually to these areas during October while November is forecast to record a further increase. Dr Chang’a warned that “periods of excessive soil moisture and flooding may occur”, potentially affecting crops, agricultural infrastructure, roads, bridges and wildlife movements.
Farmers are advised to follow local agricultural and weather updates before planting, improve field drainage, avoid cultivation in flood-prone areas and take measures to protect crops from fungal and bacterial diseases.
Members of the public should clear drainage channels, avoid crossing flooded rivers and roads, protect water sources from contamination and monitor TMA warnings.
Tour operators and visitors planning safaris, mountain climbing or road trips in Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Manyara and Tanga should expect occasional rains, slippery roads and sudden weather changes, particularly from early October.
TMA has urged all sectors to use updated forecasts in planning activities, harvest rainwater where possible and strengthen vulnerable infrastructure ahead of the wetter months.
