Meteorological Department Warns of Heavy Rain, Dangerous Heat This Week

(JUBA)-Heavy rain is expected to hit parts of Eastern and Western Equatoria states this week, while several other parts of the country are forecast to experience dangerously high heat levels, the South Sudan Meteorological Department has stated in its weekly forecast.

The forecast for Aug. 5-12 released on Monday predicts more than 200 millimetres (8 inches) of rain in southeastern Torit County in Eastern Equatoria State and southern Ibba County in Western Equatoria State.

Meanwhile, most other parts of the country are expected to receive between 100 and 200 millimeters (4 to 8 inches) of rainfall. The downpours could flood low-lying areas, damage roads and make it harder for people to reach markets, schools and health facilities.

Weather officials also warned of dangerous heat conditions on Aug. 5-12 in Jonglei, Upper Nile, Unity, Warrap, Northern Bahr el Ghazal and the Abyei Administrative Area. Weathermen urged people in affected areas to take precautions, especially children, older adults and those who work outdoors.

The forecast comes as South Sudan enters the height of its rainy season, when heavy rains often cut off villages, wash away roads and bridges, and force families from their homes.

For many South Sudanese, the rainy season brings both relief and hardship. While the rains are essential for farming, they also threaten communities that are still recovering from years of repeated flooding.

In recent years, flooding has become one of the country’s biggest humanitarian challenges. Communities in Jonglei, Unity and Upper Nile states have repeatedly seen homes submerged, crops destroyed and livestock swept away, leaving thousands of families dependent on humanitarian assistance.