MOST parts of the country will experience normal to warmer-than-normal minimum temperatures, with cooler-than-usual conditions predicted in regions such as Kigoma, Tabora, Katavi, Rukwa, Singida, and the western part of Dodoma.

Ladislaus Chang’a, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) director general, issued this projection at a briefing on the climatic outlook for the coming quarter, covering June, July and August, in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

He said July is expected to be the coldest month in many areas, as temperatures will drop significantly in the southwestern highlands and northeastern regions, where in some areas minimum temperatures could fall below six degrees Celsius.

While the three month period is typically dry, occasional off-seasonal rains are likely in the Lake Victoria Basin, coastal zones along Unguja and Pemba islands, he said. These unseasonal showers are linked with changing wind patterns and regional sea surface temperatures, he said, asserting that wind conditions will be dominated by moderate south-easterly winds, particularly along the seashore and immediate hinterland.

Occasional strong southerly winds are expected during June and July, potentially affecting marine operations and contributing to dusty conditions inland, he said, cautioning over an increased risk of cold-related illnesses such as pneumonia, chiefly in the western and highland areas.

Livestock diseases may also become more common due to the low temperatures, he said, pointing out that dust carried by strong winds could aggravate eye and respiratory conditions, while water and pasture shortages may challenge rural communities and livestock keepers.

Members of the public need to take health precautions, use water resources wisely, and follow expert guidance in agriculture and livestock rearing, he said, highlighting that farmers are encouraged to grow vegetables and root crops in wetlands.

Livestock keepers need to take up pest and disease control measures, while seashore users are advised to monitor daily weather updates to ensure safety and efficiency, especially during periods of strong winds, he said.

Sea surface temperatures in the Pacific and Indian oceans are expected to remain near normal, with minimal influence on wider climatic situations, even as warmer-than-normal waters south of Madagascar may reduce the frequency and intensity of cold southerly winds breaking into the southern coastline, the forecaster noted.

While general weather patterns are predictable, local variations may still occur, in which case communities are encouraged to stay informed through regular updates, he said.

Climatic trend forecasts are issued on a daily, 10-day and monthly basis to enhance preparedness for changes in weather for the coming months of the cooler season.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an Eastern Africa regional association, issued a Greater Horn of Africa (GHA) forecast that projected experiencing above-average rainfall between June and September.

The Climate Prediction and Applications Center (ICPAC) tied with the agency said there is likely to be a normal onset of rains across most parts of the region, with some countries anticipating an earlier start than is usual. Traditionally a dry season, the coming three month period has experienced weather disruptions in recent years due to climate change, the agency indicated.