ANACIM WARNS ABOUT "FALSE STARTS" TO THE RAINY SEASON

The National Agency for Civil Aviation and Meteorology (ANACIM) is issuing a warning. According to the agrometeorological bulletin for the first ten days of July, possible "false starts" to the rainy season are expected in central Senegal.

Since June 24, a lull in rainfall has persisted in the northern, central, and western regions. No thunderstorms have been recorded in the north, and only light rain was observed in the central region on July 8. In the south, the Sédhiou and Ziguinchor regions received little precipitation, with Kolda experiencing a rainfall deficit.

The multidisciplinary working group under ANACIM indicates that "these pauses could cause false starts in certain localities, particularly for at-risk plantings. Soil water reserves remain low, impacting young seedlings, especially in the Southeast. Pastures are also insufficient in the North and Center, unlike in the South, where recent rains have promoted grass growth."

Rainy periods expected from July 16th to 20th

The agency notes, however, that "vegetation is establishing itself normally across most of the territory." Regarding the hydrological situation, the bulletin reports a rise in water levels in the Senegal and Gambia river basins at Bakel, Matam, Podor, Kidira, and Gouloumbou.

ANACIM forecasts a gradual return of rainfall starting July 13. A significant storm event is expected between July 16 and 20 in the South, East, and South-Central regions. The GTP advises farmers to "consult the forecasts before sowing," particularly in the central regions. It also recommends repairing any broken boreholes used for livestock watering and strengthening epidemiological surveillance to support livestock farmers and protect animal health.