Global Weather Hazards Summary: January 23-29, 2025
The Global Weather Hazards Summary for January 23-29, 2025, reports La Niña conditions contributing to high flooding risks in eastern southern Africa and dryness in southern Colombia. Key regions experiencing notable weather issues include southern Africa, where heavy rainfall has caused flooding, and parts of Somalia suffering from drought. Central Asia is also expected to face unusual cold this week.
The Global Weather Hazards Summary for January 23-29, 2025, indicates ongoing La Niña conditions in the equatorial Pacific, contributing to significant weather patterns worldwide. High flooding risks persist in eastern southern Africa and along the Atlantic coasts of Central America, while southern Colombia continues to experience dryness. Central Asia will also encounter unusually cold temperatures in parts of the region.
In Africa, heavy rainfall has led to flooding in eastern southern Africa, while Somalia faces drought due to insufficient rainfall. Areas impacted include:
1. Continued inundation in the Sudd wetlands of South Sudan.
2. Central and southern Somalia report abnormal dryness and drought following poorly-distributed rainfall since late September. Additional regions at risk include central Angola, eastern Zambia, Malawi, northern Mozambique, and eastern Madagascar, which are experiencing abnormal dryness and drought conditions, particularly on Madagascar’s eastern coasts.
3. Southern Mauritania, central and southern Mali, central Kenya, southern Namibia, and western and central South Africa are likely to experience high temperatures this week.
4. Flooding remains a problem in the east-central Democratic Republic of Congo.
5. The recent passage of Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI has caused flooding in northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique, while previous heavy rainfall has led to flooding across eastern Botswana, southern and northern Zimbabwe, central and eastern South Africa, and southern Mozambique. Forecasts predict continued heavy rainfall in Madagascar, maintaining high flooding risks in affected areas.
La Niña is a climate phenomenon that significantly impacts global weather, influencing precipitation and temperature patterns across continents. The report highlights the effects of La Niña conditions, particularly in southern Africa and Central America, where varied weather issues such as flooding and drought are prevalent. Understanding these conditions is vital for predicting agricultural impacts, preparing for disaster response, and implementing climate adaptation measures.
In summary, the weather conditions during the week of January 23-29, 2025, reflect the ongoing influence of La Niña, with flooding risks in southern Africa and dryness in Colombia. The document underscores significant weather hazards, particularly in Africa, where heavy rainfall has led to notable flooding and drought conditions in various regions. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are crucial to mitigate impacts on communities and the environment.
Original Source: reliefweb.int