**Seasonal Climate Forecasts in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Look at Risks and Challenges**
In a geographically diverse country such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, weather is of paramount importance for the safety of its inhabitants, as well as for economic and social development. Recent seasonal climate forecasts published by the National Agency for Meteorology and Remote Sensing by Satellite (METTELSAT) for the period from November 2024 to January 2025 reveal marked disparities in the levels of precipitation anticipated across the Congolese territory.
In the north and west of the country, above-normal precipitation is forecast, impacting provinces such as Nord-Ubangi, Sud-Ubangi, Équateur, Maï-Ndombe, Kwilu, Kwango, Kongo Central, as well as parts of Ituri and Tanganyika. This anticipation of heavy rains raises the specter of increased risks of flooding and landslides, thus posing additional challenges in terms of the safety of infrastructure and the local population.
In the centre of the country, the forecast remains normal, affecting key regions such as Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Kananga, Mbuji-Mayi, Manono, Bunia, Kisangani and Goma. These stable forecasts offer some peace of mind, but nevertheless remind us of the need to remain vigilant in the face of possible sudden changes in the climate.
In contrast, the Kasaï regions and parts of Lualaba are forecast to have below-normal rainfall, with deficits expected in particular in Kolwezi and Tshikapa. This prospect of drought could severely impact agricultural activities and water availability, highlighting the existing socio-economic fragilities in these already vulnerable regions.
The diversity of anticipated climatic conditions underlines the importance of increased monitoring and adapted preventive measures to mitigate potential risks to populations and infrastructure. Congolese authorities, in collaboration with meteorological organizations, must mobilize proactive actions to guarantee the safety and resilience of communities in the face of climatic hazards. Awareness raising, emergency planning and investment in resilient infrastructure are becoming imperatives to face current and future climate challenges.
In conclusion, seasonal climate forecasts for the coming months in the Democratic Republic of Congo call for a proactive and united approach to address the risks and challenges related to climate variations. By relying on rigorous scientific analysis and mobilizing a collective response, the country will be able to better prepare for climate impacts and strengthen its resilience in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather.