Ms Francisca Martey, the Deputy Director, Research and Applied Meteorology, said the March to June period was the main rainy season for areas below the 8th parallel north, including Accra, Tema, Saltpond, Ada, Akatsi, Akuse, Aburi, Koforidua, and other coastal and inland towns.

She said this during her presentation at the launch of the 3rd edition of Meteorological Awareness Month (MAM) on the theme “Closing the Early Warning Gap Together.”

While some areas may see surplus rainfall, others, especially in the forest and transition zones like Sunyani, Dormaa, and Wenchi, may receive less than usual.

She warned that the rains would come with risks, including flooding, which could damage property and displace people, adding “Flash floods are expected in cities like Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, making some roads impassable.”

Ms Martey advised drivers to avoid flooded areas, while those living in flood-prone areas should prepare to move to higher ground.

“Motorists should also be cautious of fallen trees and other debris on roads during and after storms. Public safety is also a major concern, people should avoid coming into contact with floodwaters, as they could be contaminated with sewage,” she explained.

She said the storms might bring strong winds and lightning, posing risks to life and property, therefore advised people to take cover in safer places when storms approach.

Ms Martey also warned that light aircraft operators should avoid flying through deep storm clouds, as they could experi­ence turbulence and lightning strikes.

“The rains could also increase the risk of diseases like malaria, cholera, dengue fever, bilharzia, and diarrhoea. Health authorities have been urged to intensify public education on these risks and ensure the availability of mosquito nets, an­ti-malaria drugs, and vaccines in affected areas,” she said.

She encouraged the public to practise good hygiene, mon­itor water quality, and report any concerns to environmental authorities.

“Farmers should also prepare for the changing weather by using improved seeds, fertilizers, and pest control measures,” she said.

Ms Martey emphasized that areas expecting normal to above-normal rainfall should take advantage of the runoff to improve fish farming and optimise fishing yields in river basins.

She also recommended that authorities ensure livestock have adequate pasture and water during the season.

To prevent disasters, she urged city authorities and disaster management agencies to step up preparations, adding that drainage systems should be desilted regularly, and people in high-risk flood areas should be relocated where possible.

As the rains approach, she encouraged the public to stay informed by following weather updates from GMet.

She stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid loss of life and property, saying “We cannot stop the rains, but we can prepare to minimise the damage.”