South Sudan forecasts moderate rainfall, warns of heat stress

The South Sudan Meteorological Service is forecasting moderate rainfall in several parts of the country from October 20 to 28, alongside above-normal temperatures and possible heat stress.

The weather service says rainfall of between 50 and 100 millimetres is expected in parts of Central and Western Equatoria, Western Bahr el Ghazal, Warrap, Lakes, Unity and Jonglei states, as well as parts of the Pibor Administrative Area and Eastern Equatoria.

The forecast covers areas including Lainya, Yei, Morobo and Kajo-Keji in Central Equatoria, most counties in Western Equatoria, and northern parts of Kapoeta East.

Light rainfall of less than 30 millimetres is expected across most other parts of the country.

The Meteorological Service says average temperatures are expected to exceed 28 degrees Celsius across much of South Sudan, with conditions likely to be warmer than normal during the forecast period.

It has urged the public to exercise extreme caution during periods of high temperatures, particularly in central, northern and eastern parts of the country, where heat stress may pose health risks.

The service advises people to limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, seek shade or cooler places during the hottest hours of the day, and drink sufficient water.

Meanwhile, south-westerly winds of between two and six metres per second are expected across most parts of the country, while stronger winds of up to eight metres per second are forecast over much of Eastern Equatoria.

The Meteorological Service has also advised farmers and livestock keepers to use the rainfall outlook to guide agricultural activities, livestock movement and water planning.

It has warned communities and road users in areas expecting heavier rainfall to remain alert to possible waterlogging, localised flooding and damage or disruption to roads and bridges.