GABORONE, July 30 (Xinhua) -- The government of Botswana on Thursday urged national preparedness for the high probability of El Nino conditions during the upcoming summer rainfall season.
The 2026/2027 Seasonal Rainfall Outlook of the Department of Meteorological Services indicates a greater than 90 percent probability that El Nino conditions will develop and dominate Botswana's upcoming summer rainfall season from October 2026 to March 2027, said the Ministry of Environment and Tourism in a press release.
The outlook projects an increased likelihood of below-normal rainfall, prolonged dry spells and above-normal temperatures over much of Botswana. While seasonal rainfall is still expected, its distribution is likely to be erratic, with longer dry periods and increased climate variability, it added.
The ministry urged all sectors of society to prepare for potential impacts on agricultural production, water resources, livestock and rangelands, public health and wildland fires, stressing that collective preparedness and responsible action will be essential in protecting lives, livelihoods, natural resources and safeguarding the economy of the southern African country. ■
