Uganda’s March-May 2025 Weather Forecast: Ministry of Water and Environment Warns of Shifting Rainfall Patterns and Calls for Preparedness"

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, Dr. Alfred Okot Okidi, today briefed the press at the Uganda Media Centre detailing Uganda’s weather outlook for the upcoming months. The statement highlights the prevailing dry conditions, the expected onset of rains, and necessary preparedness measures to mitigate potential climate-related challenges.

Weather Forecast for Different Regions

Central and Lake Victoria Basin

The prevailing dry conditions in central Uganda and areas surrounding Lake Victoria are expected to continue until early March. Seasonal rains are forecasted to commence around mid-March, reaching their peak between mid-April and early May. Rainfall is expected to gradually subside by early June. Overall, near-normal to above-normal rainfall is predicted.

Eastern Kyoga Region

(Pallisa, Kibuku, Budaka, Butaleja, Butebo, Kumi, Kalaki, Kaberamaido, Soroti, Serere, Bukedea, and Ngora) The dry spell will persist until early March, with seasonal rains anticipated from mid-to-late March. Peak rainfall is expected between late April and early May, followed by a gradual reduction by early June. This region will experience near-normal to above-normal rainfall.

Mount Elgon Region

(Mbale, Manafwa, Namisindwa, Bududa, Sironko, Bulambuli, Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwo)

The current dry conditions will extend into early March, with rains starting in mid-to-late March. The peak of the rainy season is projected between late April and early May. This region will receive near-normal to above-normal rainfall.

Implications and Preparedness Measures Dr. Okidi emphasized that while the rainfall outlook is promising for agricultural activities, it also presents risks such as flooding, landslides, and disease outbreaks.

To address these concerns, he outlined several recommendations: 

Agriculture and Food Security

Farmers are encouraged to prepare their gardens and plant early to maximize crop yields. Agricultural extension services should guide farmers on appropriate crop varieties suited to the expected rainfall patterns.

Disaster Preparedness

Authorities in flood-prone areas, especially in Mount Elgon and Eastern Uganda, should take proactive measures to mitigate risks of landslides and flash floods.T

he Ministry of Water and Environment is coordinating with disaster response teams to monitor high-risk zones. 

Water Resource Management

With near-normal to above-normal rainfall expected, water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting should be emphasized.

The public is urged to use water resources efficiently to sustain supplies during the dry periods.

Public Health Considerations

The anticipated rains may lead to an increase in waterborne diseases. The Ministry of Health is advised to strengthen disease surveillance and ensure communities have access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Residents in high-risk areas should take preventive measures against malaria and other vector-borne diseases.

Call for Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

Dr. Okidi called on stakeholders, including government agencies, local authorities, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector, to work together in implementing climate adaptation strategies. He stressed that effective coordination is vital to reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring Uganda remains resilient to climate fluctuations.

As Uganda transitions from the dry spell to the rainy season, the Ministry of Water and Environment remains committed to providing timely updates and guidance to the public.

This comprehensive update serves as an important advisory for Ugandans to prepare adequately for the changing weather patterns. The Ministry encourages all citizens to stay informed and take the necessary precautions for a productive and safe season ahead.