Climate observatory warns against of impending floods, landslides, disease outbreaks.

The bulletin highlights the high risk of floods in major urban centres, including Douala, Yaounde, Kribi, Limbe, Garoua, Ngaoundere, Maroua and Bamenda. 

It links the threat to heavy and abundant rainfall, coupled with the obstruction of water drainage systems by waste. The bulletin further noted that persistent soil saturation since the start of the rainy season, has weakened the ground in several areas, increasing the likelihood of water overflow and property damage.

Populations in mountainous areas are on alert as the bulletin warns of cases of landslides in the South West, Littoral, North West and West Regions; due to heavy rains, coupled with waterlogged soil and steep terrain. 

Risk hotspots include Buea, Limbe, Mutengene, Nkongsamba, Widikum and Bazou, where heavy downpours could destabilise slopes and trigger destructive earth movements.

Rising health risks

The bulletin warns of surging malaria cases in the Sudano-Sahelian and Guinea High Savannah zones, as stagnant water creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes. 

Outbreaks of waterborne diarrheal diseases are considered likely in large cities, particularly in Douala, Yaounde and Edea, where polluted runoff could contaminate water points.

The bulletin further warns that cold temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 21.5°C in some areas, combined with high humidity, are expected to trigger respiratory illnesses in the Adamawa, West, North West, Littoral, South West, Centre, South and East Regions. The elderly and young children are identified as the most vulnerable groups.

Agricultural, livestock losses envisaged

According to the bulletin, farmers are expected to face severe challenges as it forecasts degradation and destruction of tomatoes, maize and pepper farms, particularly in the Western Highlands, Sudano-Sahelian and Monomodal rainforest zones due to the strong winds that could accompany the forecast rains. 

It warned that in the southern parts of Cameroon, orchards of mango, papaya and avocado may also be damaged by storms and violent winds.

The livestock sector could face significant losses as the NOCC bulletin highlights the threat of lightning strikes killing animals and shepherds in exposed areas. 

Respiratory diseases are expected to rise among cattle, pigs and poultry due to persistent cold and humidity. Contagious foot rot in cattle may spread rapidly in muddy soils across the Sudano-Sahelian and Guinea High Savannah zones.

The bulletin urges communities, farmers and authorities to prepare for the impact of these risks during the first ten days of September this year.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3553 of Wednesday September 03, 2025