DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 27 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania's weather watchdog warned on Wednesday that the impending poor seasonal rains distribution is likely to cause poor crop harvests, threatening the east African nation's food security.
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) said in its weather forecast that poor seasonal rains distribution is expected to begin in the third week of November 2021 through the third week of April 2022.
TMA said due to the below normal to normal rains expected in most areas across the country experiencing the seasonal rains, severe soil moisture depletion may occur, affecting crop growth.
In addition, an increase in crop pests such as ants, parasites, rodents and diseases are expected to occur in the season, affecting crops and production in general, said the weather watchdog.
"Farmers are advised to plant crops and seeds that mature within a short period of time and that can survive in low rainfall condition such as root crops and garden crops," it said.
In addition, TMA advised farmers to use sustainable farming techniques and technologies for water and soil moisture preservation.
According to the weather forecast, pasture and water conditions for wildlife are expected to decrease due to the expected poor rainfall distribution.
"This situation may lead to conflicts between wildlife and the community around wildlife reserves," said TMA, adding that the spread of diseases in domesticated animals and wildlife may occur due to interactions in the search for water and pasture. Enditem
