Rwanda's Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) has urged citizens to prepare for the upcoming Umuhindo rainy season, warning that heavier-than-normal rainfall could increase the risk of floods, landslides, lightning and strong winds across the country.
The warning follows a seasonal forecast from Meteo Rwanda, which says this year's Umuhindo season, running from September to December, is expected to receive above-average rainfall because of the El Niño weather phenomenon. While this period is normally known as an important planting season, weather experts say the unusually heavy rains could also trigger serious disasters if preventive measures are not taken.
Meteo Rwanda encouraged the public to take action before the rains begin, saying, "We are all urged to prepare in advance and implement measures to prevent and reduce the impact of disasters." Authorities are advising residents to repair damaged houses, strengthen roofs, clear drainage channels and water pathways, and relocate from high-risk areas where necessary. Farmers are also encouraged to protect their land from soil erosion and insure their crops and livestock against possible losses.
Recent figures show why the warning is being taken seriously. A Senate report released in June 2026 found that disasters killed 130 people and damaged about 1,800 homes in 2025. Between January and March 2026 alone, floods, landslides and lightning claimed 28 lives. Since 2022, natural disasters have killed 899 people, injured more than 1,800 others and destroyed crops on over 7,000 hectares of farmland, highlighting the need for stronger preparedness before the expected heavy Umuhindo rains.
👊Stay updated with the latest and most important news on @thefocusrwanda
Tags
RWANDA