The Government of Uganda, through the Uganda National Meteorological Authority, is raising awareness that the ongoing heatwave is likely to persist until March.
The unusual heat, with temperatures in some areas surpassing 35°C, has raised concerns among citizens, farmers, and health experts.
Grace Nambi, a resident of Kampala, cried, saying, “We have never felt heat like this before. It’s becoming unbearable. Even at night, the temperatures remain high, making it difficult to sleep.”
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Today, temperatures in major cities rose, with Kampala recording 37°C and Lira at 37°C. Jinja 38°C, Gulu 37°C, Soroti 38°C.
Western regions were also experiencing extreme heat but lower than other regions, with Mbarara at 32°C, Fort Portal at 32°C, and Hoima at 33°C.
These high temperatures are not limited to Uganda, as regional cities are also grappling with soaring temperatures.
Kigali (Rwanda) recorded 31°C, Dodoma (Tanzania) 33°C, and Kinshasa (DR Congo) 30°C, while Nairobi, Kenya, was the ‘coldest’ at 29°C.
Juba faced it worst with temperatures reaching 42°C, forcing authorities to close schools after reports of students collapsing due to the heat.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme temperatures to climate variability, deforestation, and urbanization.
Abubakar Kalema, a principal meteorologist, said, “The rising temperatures are linked to changes in weather patterns, and we expect the heat to extend into March.”
Farmers are already feeling the impact, with crops wilting under the prolonged heat and delayed rains.
“Our crops are drying up, and if this continues, we are going to face food shortages,” said John Mugisha, a farmer in Rakai District.
Hospitals have not been left behind with a reported increase in heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and heat stroke.
“We have recorded more cases of patients experiencing dizziness, headaches, and extreme fatigue,” said Dr. Sarah Kintu, a physician at Mulago Hospital. “The elderly and children are the most affected.”
That as it is, Ugandans are trying to cope with the intense heat.
“I always carry water with me and try to stay indoors during the hottest hours,” said Janet Tumusiime, a shopkeeper in Jinja.
Environmental activists, on their part, urge the government to act swiftly.
“We need to plant more trees, promote sustainable land use, and invest in climate adaptation measures,” said Brian Okello, an environmentalist.
“If we don’t act now, the situation will only worsen.”
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