The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued its forecast for the 2026 major rainy season in southern Ghana, providing early warnings to protect lives, property, and key sectors.
The forecast is intended to help farmers, businesses, and local authorities prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Residents are strongly urged to heed updates from GMet, local assemblies, and NADMO to reduce risks and ensure safety.
The rainy season is expected to start in March and continue through July or August. Above-average rainfall is anticipated along the East Coast and nearby inland areas—including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade—between April and June, increasing the likelihood of floods and flash floods.
Dry spells are also expected between March and April, which could disrupt crops, reduce reservoir inflows, and create early-season water stress.
Speaking at the launch of Meteorological Awareness Month and the 2026 seasonal forecast, Minister of Communication, Digitalisation and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, emphasized the need for vigilance and preparation. He announced plans to upgrade GMet into a full-fledged authority with enhanced powers to enforce compliance and modernize operations.
“While we cannot prevent weather hazards, their impact can be reduced through timely information, preparedness, and responsible action,” he said. “The government is committed to updating policies and laws to incorporate technologies like artificial intelligence, big data, IoT, and machine learning. Upgrading GMet into an authority is a key step to strengthen its policy role.”
Dr. Eric Asuman, Director-General of GMet, welcomed the move, noting that it will improve enforcement, broaden revenue sources, and meet international standards.
The Minister also directed the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority to settle outstanding debts owed to GMet, warning that non-compliance could result in parliamentary action.
Residents were further cautioned against dumping waste into drainage systems and urged to clear gutters before the peak of the rainy season to reduce flooding risks.
Farmers are encouraged to prepare for supplementary irrigation, adopt water-saving practices, and plant early-maturing, drought-tolerant crops to mitigate the effects of dry spells.
Source: 3news
