Ugandans have been urged to prepare for a prolonged dry season and rising temperatures following the release of the June–August 2026 weather forecast by the Ministry of Water and Environment. The ministry warns that most parts of the country, especially the Central Region and areas around the Lake Victoria Basin, are expected to experience below normal rainfall and intense sunshine during the period. Our reporter has the details.

The Ministry of Water and Environment has officially released the June–August 2026 seasonal weather forecast, outlining expected weather patterns across the country. The forecast, issued by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Alfred Okot Okidi, indicates that several parts of Uganda are likely to experience dry conditions, high temperatures and reduced rainfall, particularly within the cattle corridor, the Central Region and areas surrounding Lake Victoria.

While addressing the media, Dr Alfred Okot Okidi explained that the forecast was developed after analysing several climate drivers expected to influence weather conditions during the season. These include sea surface temperatures, topographical features such as mountains, the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and tropical wind systems.

Dr Okidi says the ministry’s seasonal rainfall outlook shows that most parts of the country are expected to receive near-normal to below-normal rainfall during the June–August season. He added that while some regions may experience relatively cooler temperatures, several parts of the country are likely to face prolonged dry spells and intense sunshine

He noted that districts within the cattle corridor, including Mbarara, Isingiro, Kazo and neighbouring areas, are already experiencing high temperatures and dry conditions, which are expected to persist throughout the season.

In the Central Region and areas around the Lake Victoria Basin, including Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Entebbe, Masaka and Kalangala, the ministry forecasts generally dry conditions accompanied by occasional light rains, increased sunshine and warm temperatures. Residents in these areas have been advised to prepare for possible water stress and prolonged dry weather conditions.

According to Dr Okidi, research conducted by the Ministry of Water and Environment indicates that the months of June, July and August are expected to be characterised by intense sunshine and high temperatures across most parts of the country, especially in the Central Region and areas surrounding Lake Victoria.

However, Dr Okidi explained that northern and northwestern parts of the country are expected to receive relatively near-normal rainfall during the same period, although the rains may not be evenly distributed.

The Permanent Secretary has urged Ugandans to store enough food, conserve water and prepare adequately for the expected dry season. He also encouraged farmers to embrace climate-smart agriculture, irrigation and early land preparation ahead of the next rainy season.

Dr Okidi further revealed that the Ministry of Water and Environment is set to begin training farmers across the country on how to cope with changing weather patterns and adopt affordable solutions aimed at minimising losses caused by prolonged dry conditions.