Global Weather Hazards Overview: January 23-29, 2025

The report highlights the presence of La Niña conditions affecting global weather, with significant flooding risks in eastern southern Africa and Central America, contrasted by drought in Somalia. The document outlines specific locations facing abnormal weather patterns, including hot conditions and ongoing flooding related to recent cyclones, underscoring urgent local challenges.

Global weather patterns reveal the presence of La Niña conditions in the equatorial Pacific region, contributing to significant weather anomalies worldwide. High flooding risk persists in eastern southern Africa and along the Atlantic coasts of Central America, while southern Colombia continues to experience prolonged dryness. Additionally, unusually cold weather conditions are expected in parts of Central Asia over the coming week.

In Africa, heavy rainfall has led to severe flooding in eastern southern Africa, contrasting with the ongoing drought in Somalia attributed to insufficient rainfall. Notably, flooding remains prevalent in the Sudd wetlands of South Sudan. The lack of adequately distributed rainfall since late September has caused abnormal dryness and drought across central and southern Somalia. Similarly, regions including central Angola, eastern Zambia, Malawi, northern Mozambique, and eastern Madagascar are witnessing significant drought conditions, particularly along Madagascar’s east-central and eastern coasts.

Hot weather conditions are anticipated in several areas, including southern Mauritania, central and southern Mali, and central Kenya, as well as southern Namibia and western and central South Africa. Flooding remains an issue in the east-central Democratic Republic of Congo, while the recent Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI has further exacerbated flooding in northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique. Heavy rainfall has previously caused flooding across eastern Botswana, southern and northern Zimbabwe, central and eastern South Africa, along with southern Mozambique, and more rain is forecast for Madagascar, increasing the flood risk in affected areas.

The report discusses the ongoing weather patterns influenced by the La Niña phenomenon, which is known to affect global weather significantly. In particular, this update emphasizes the contrasting weather conditions faced by various regions in Africa, showcasing both flooding risks and drought issues. Understanding these conditions is crucial for preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the impacts on affected populations and ecosystems.

In conclusion, the current weather overview indicates a complex interplay of flooding and drought conditions across different regions, particularly in Africa, which demands attention from meteorological agencies and humanitarian organizations. The harsh realities of La Niña are impacting both humanitarian needs and ecological stability. Proactive measures are essential to mitigate the risks associated with these ongoing weather anomalies.

Original Source: reliefweb.int