Districts in Western and Northern provinces are expected to receive heavier rains towards the end of March, according to Rwanda Meteorological Agency.

The agency’s forecast released on Friday shows that between March 21 and March 31, rainfall will range between 50mm and 150mm across the country, which is above what is normally recorded during this period.

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The heaviest rainfall, ranging between 130mm and 150mm, are expected in parts of Nyamasheke District and Rusizi District, as well as in some parts of Nyaruguru District and Nyamagabe District. Similar conditions are also expected in some parts of Musanze District, Burera District and Gicumbi District.

Rainfall ranging between 110mm and 130mm is expected in much of the Western Province and in several districts in the north and south, including parts of Gakenke District and central areas of Gicumbi District, as well as some parts of Muhanga District and Rulindo District.

In Kigali, rainfall is expected to range between 90mm and 110mm in most areas, while slightly lower amounts are expected in some parts of Kicukiro District.

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Lower rainfall, between 50mm and 90mm, is expected in parts of Eastern Province and the Amayaga region.

Rain is expected for six to eight days during the period, depending on the location.

Temperature

Daytime temperatures will range between 21°C and 30°C, with warmer conditions expected in areas such as Bugesera District and parts of Eastern Province. Cooler daytime temperatures, between 21°C and 23°C, are expected in highland areas including parts of Burera District, Nyabihu District and Ngororero District.

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At night, temperatures could drop to between 9°C and 11°C in colder areas such as parts of Nyabihu District and Musanze District, while warmer nights of up to 18°C are expected in parts of Kigali and eastern districts.

Winds

Winds are also expected to be moderate to strong, ranging between 4 and 12 metres per second across the country, with stronger winds likely in some parts of the Eastern and Northern provinces.

The weather office says the forecast comes at a time when the ground in many areas is already soaked from recent rains, raising the risk of flooding and landslides, especially in hilly areas in Kigali and in Western, Northern and Southern provinces.

The agency has urged the public to follow guidance from authorities and take precautions to minimise possible damage.

This follows heavy rains that struck several parts of Rwanda on Wednesday, March 18, leaving two children dead and four other people injured, according to officials. The rains also destroyed more than 30 hectares of crops, according to the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management.