Global Weather Hazards Summary January 20 – 26, 2023

Abnormal heat in South Africa, while Eastern Africa experiences abnormal dryness and drought

1. Dry and erratic conditions since the beginning of the October to December season in Eastern Africa have resulted in abnormal dryness in central and eastern Kenya, southern Ethiopia, and eastern Tanzania. Drought has developed in southern Ethiopia, southern Somalia, and northern Kenya.
2. Below-average rainfall over the past eight weeks has resulted in moderate to large 30-day moisture deficits, which have led to abnormal dryness in northern Madagascar.
3. Increased rainfall in the past few weeks has overly saturated the soil, resulting in flooding in South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
4. An erratic rainfall distribution since November has resulted in abnormal dryness in southern parts of Angola and Zambia, northern portions of Namibia and Botswana, and much of Zimbabwe.
5. Despite the dry period, inundation is increasing in the Sudd Wetlands, causing flooding in South Sudan. Rising water levels from the Kafue River have resulted in rising water levels and flooding in Zambia. Likewise, heavy rainfall in recent weeks has led to flooding along the Congo River and its tributaries, and elevated flows in the Orange and Vaal rivers have led to floods in South Africa.
6. An abnormal heat hazard is posted in South Africa, where maximum temperatures could exceed 35°C next week.

Source: Famine Early Warning System Network