By Mulengera Reporters Uganda is expected to experience a notable contrast in weather patterns during the month of July, with the northern and eastern regions continuing to receive moderate rainfall while central, western, and southern regions face predominantly dry, cold, and hazy conditions.
This is according to the monthly weather update issued by the Ministry of Water and Environment through the Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA).
The report indicates that northern sub-regions such as West Nile, Acholi, Lango, Karamoja, Teso, and parts of eastern Uganda including Bukedi and Mount Elgon will experience sustained rainfall activity. This is attributed to the northward movement of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which is a major climate system responsible for transporting rain-bearing winds into the region.
The presence of local features such as inland lakes, forests, and mountainous terrain is also expected to enhance localized rainfall, particularly around Lake Victoria.
Conversely, the southern half of the country (including much of central, western, and southwestern Uganda) is expected to experience suppressed rainfall. Areas such as Kampala, Masaka, Mbarara, Fort Portal, and others in the Lake Victoria crescent will likely receive only isolated light showers.
The prevailing dry and hazy weather is expected to persist throughout the month, with clearer skies and lower humidity.
The same report notes a general drop in temperatures across most parts of the country. Maximum daytime temperatures are projected to range between 26°C and 30°C in the West Nile, southwestern, central, and eastern parts of Uganda. Highland areas such as Kigezi, Mount Elgon, and the Rwenzori Mountains may experience much cooler conditions, with daytime highs between 8°C and 14°C.
Nighttime minimum temperatures are forecast to range between 12°C and 20°C across most regions.
However, some high-altitude areas will see temperatures fall below 12°C, while parts of the Lake Albert rift and West Nil may register warmer minimum temperatures. The mean daily temperatures across Uganda are expected to range between 18°C and 24°C, with relatively higher averages in the northern region due to seasonal warming patterns.
According to MoWE, the expected rainfall distribution and temperature patterns are the result of a combination of regional and global climate factors.
These include the current position of the ITCZ, the convergence of southeasterly winds from the Indian Ocean with moist westerly winds from the Congo Basin, and the influence of local geographical features. The interaction of these systems is anticipated to create diverse weather conditions across Uganda.
The weather outlook for July follows a mixed rainfall performance in June. UNMA reports that rainfall decreased sharply across most of the country during early June, signalling the end of the March, April, May rainfall season in the central, western, and parts of the eastern regions.
However, from mid to late June, rainfall activity picked up significantly in the northern and eastern parts of the country.
Despite the general decline in rainfall, several locations recorded above-average precipitation. Entebbe registered 268.5 mm in 11 days, Bulambuli district received 200.4 mm over 19 days, and Serere recorded 141.9 mm in 10 days. Kampala, Jinja, and Masaka also registered substantial amounts of rainfall over short periods.
The increase in rainfall during the last week of June was largely due to a low-pressure system that developed over parts of eastern and southern Africa, drawing in moisture and enhancing rainfall activity.
The Ministry has issued several advisories to help the public prepare for the predicted weather conditions. For northern and eastern Uganda, where rainfall is expected to persist, farmers are encouraged to continue planting.
They are advised to implement soil and water conservation techniques such as trenches, stone bands, and grass strips to manage water runoff and prevent soil erosion.
In the central and southern parts of the country, where dry conditions are expected, farmers are urged to complete harvesting and begin preparing their gardens for the next planting season. The use of fertilizers is recommended to restore soil fertility, particularly in areas affected by erosion and nutrient loss.
Livestock farmers across the country are advised to monitor pasture and water availability closely. In wet areas, animals should be relocated to dry, raised grounds to prevent diseases such as foot rot, while in dry regions, close observation is necessary to prevent livestock losses due to drought and lack of water.
Urban authorities, particularly in regions expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, are encouraged to clear drainage channels to reduce the risk of flooding and road damage, yet in areas experiencing dry weather, the MoWE has advised the public to harvest and store water while it is available to help mitigate the effects of the dry spell.
The Ministry also warns of potential public health concerns associated with the expected weather. In the north and eastern regions, where standing water is likely to accumulate, an increase in malaria cases is anticipated. Health facilities are urged to stock up on essential malaria drugs and intensify mosquito net distribution campaigns.
In the colder southern regions, the Ministry expects a rise in respiratory illnesses such as asthma, pneumonia, and flu. Citizens are encouraged to take appropriate precautions and seek early medical attention.
