Climate observatory warns of heavy rains, flood risks in several regions.

According to the forecast document, several parts of the country, including the Sudano-Sahelian zone, the Guinea High Savannah, the Western Highlands, and the Monomodal rain forest areas, are expected to record above-average rainfall.

The Bimodal rain forest zone will also see abundant rains, with the exception of the East region, where a reduction is forecast.

The bulletin confirms that the period coincides with the peak of the rainy season, prolonging wet conditions across most of the country and raising concerns over waterlogged soils, overflowing rivers, and blocked urban drainage systems.

The observatory has warned of risks of crop losses in tomatoes, maize, and pepper farms in the Western Highlands, Sudano-Sahelian and Monomodal rain forest zones, due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. 

Orchards in southern regions may also be damaged by violent winds accompanying rains. The bulletin highlights a high risk of malaria outbreaks, linked to stagnant water in Sudano-Sahelian, Guinea High Savannah and southern zones. 

Waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea may spread due to contamination of water points by runoff. 

Cases of respiratory illnesses are also likely to increase as a result of cold and high humidity, particularly affecting children under five and the elderly.

NOCC has also warned of possible floods in major towns, including Blangoua, Kousseri, Logone Birni, Maroua, Garoua, Foumban, Douala, Kribi, Limbe and Bamenda, due to heavy rainfall and obstructed drainage systems. 

It adds that landslides may occur in the South West, Littoral, North West and West regions where heavy rainfall combines with waterlogged soils and steep terrain.  

It also warns of a high risk of strong winds and lightning strikes leading to damage to infrastructure, homes and biodiversity.

Livestock, the body said, faces increased risks of respiratory illnesses and foot rot, especially in the Sudano-Sahelian, Guinea High Savannah, Western Highlands and forest zones. Losses of cattle and poultry from lightning strikes are also anticipated. 

In the energy sector, heavy rains and strong winds threaten electricity transmission infrastructure, including poles, transformers and lines.

What should be done

The observatory has advised farmers to follow the agricultural calendars for the second planting season in the south and for in-season crop development in the Guinea High Savannah and Sudano-Sahelian zones. 

Farmers are urged to protect vulnerable crops and orchards from strong winds where possible.

In the health sector, residents are encouraged to observe strict hygiene for food and water consumption, dress warmly to guard against respiratory illnesses, consume hot drinks to maintain body warmth, and limit exposure to cold winds, especially during evenings and nights.

For livestock, NOCC has recommended that herders and poultry farmers contact zoo-technical services for closer monitoring of animals, strengthen shelters against cold and humidity, and improve heating systems on farms to minimise losses.

In urban areas, residents are advised to clear drainage channels of solid waste to reduce flood risks, reinforce buildings where soils are already weakened by prolonged rainfall, and remain alert to lightning and strong winds that may damage power lines and structures.

The observatory has further warned that during thunderstorms, people should avoid standing under trees for shelter, to reduce the risk of accidents from lightning strikes.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3574 of Wednesday September 24, 2025