Heavy rains expected in Kigezi, Ankole
The Department of Meteorological Services has forecast heavy rainfall in the Kigezi and Ankole subregions between November 1 and 10, 2026, warning of possible floods, landslides, transport disruptions and waterborne diseases, while advising farmers and communities to take precautionary measures.
Heavy rains expected in Kigezi, Ankole
__________________
The giver of heavy rains for southwestern and western Uganda has not run out of stock. This is because the Department of Meteorological Services (DMS) has predicted heavy rainfall in southwestern (Kigezi and Ankole subregions) between November 1 - 10, 2026. It said the two areas are likely to receive a significant amount of rainfall.
The department also predicted occasional rainfall in most parts of the country. It also pointed out moderate to isolated rainfall, especially over the regions of Western, West Nile, Northern, Lake Victoria, Mount Rwenzori, and Eastern.
How about Karamoja and the neighbouring areas? "The Karamoja subregion and some neighbouring districts have a higher likelihood of remaining dry, with a few areas receiving isolated light rainfall,” states the department in part.
During the last 10 days of October 2026, most areas across the country received a significant amount of rain, apart from the Karamoja subregion and its neighbouring districts that had isolated rainfall.
Temperatures
The Northern and Eastern regions are expected to experience the highest maximum temperatures, ranging from 32 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius. Most parts of the Southern part are likely to range from 24 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees Celsius.
Potential impacts
The areas expected to have heavy to moderate rainfall have high potential risks of flooding, landslides, mudslides, rock falls, transport disruption, and infrastructure damage.
“These wet conditions are also likely to result in contamination of unprotected water sources due to surface runoff, leading to outbreaks of waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, alongside increased malaria transmission from stagnant water breeding sites,” the forecast stated in part. “Strong and gusty winds resulting to blowing off of roof structures and plants, and a likelihood of lightning incidents over most parts of the country. While the areas to be dry are likely to have high risks of reduced moisture.”
The department pointed out that farmers should undertake planting and use appropriate crop varieties suited to the expected rainfall conditions. “Dig drainage channels to divert excess water from gardens to avoid waterlogging and flooding,” said DMS. “Monitor and report any emergence of crop pests, animal parasites, and plant diseases to authorities."
The department warned communities living in vulnerable steep slopes to stay highly alert and temporarily relocate to safer lowlands or host safer families if cracks appear in the soil.
“Urban authorities are advised to swiftly clear silt and garbage from drainage channels, open storm drains, and cover open manholes to prevent drowning,” said DMS. “Communities are encouraged to boil or treat all drinking water.”
The department added, “Intensify household hygiene and clear bushes and stagnant water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Communities are advised not to cross flooded areas.”
The public and school children are advised not to seek shelter under isolated trees, tents, open-sided pavilions, football fields, or roof structures that lack lightning arresters during thunderstorms. “Areas expected to have dry conditions should utilize the rainfall, maintain soil moisture (by irrigation and mulching), monitor crop conditions, and ensure pasture and water availability,” stated DMS.