Horn Of Africa Faces Below-Average Rains, Hotter Weather in Late 2025 – IGAD

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: Large parts of the Horn of Africa are likely to receive below-normal rainfall and face warmer-than-average temperatures from October to December this year, regional climate experts have said.

The forecast was released by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) during the 71st Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum, which brought together governments, meteorologists and development partners in Nairobi.

The October-December period is vital for equatorial countries, providing up to 70% of annual rainfall in parts of Kenya and Somalia.

According to ICPAC, southern Ethiopia, much of Somalia, eastern Kenya and central and southern Tanzania face the strongest risk of drier-than-usual conditions. In contrast, heavier rains are expected in southeastern South Sudan, northern Somalia, northern Rwanda and parts of Uganda.

Western Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and northwestern Tanzania could see more than 300 mm of rain, while delays in the start of the rainy season are likely in southern Somalia, eastern Kenya and parts of Tanzania.

Most of the region will also experience hotter-than-normal surface temperatures, with the exception of some cross-border areas of Uganda, South Sudan and northwestern Kenya.

“The Greater Horn of Africa is at the frontline of the climate crisis,” said Mohamed Ware, deputy executive secretary of IGAD. “Climate information must reach the last mile, and only through collaboration and early action can we turn forecasts into meaningful action.”

Kenya’s Environment Minister Deborah Barasa urged countries to share data and strengthen regional systems, while Kenya Meteorological Department head Edward Muriuki said early warnings only save lives if they reach vulnerable communities.