East African governments are strengthening disaster preparedness after forecasts indicated a developing El Niño weather pattern that could bring above-normal rainfall, flooding and humanitarian emergencies across the region in the coming months. 

Uganda has become one of the first countries to issue an official warning, saying El Niño is likely to influence the September-to-December rainy season, increasing the risk of floods, landslides and damage to critical infrastructure. The Ministry of Water and Environment is working with regional and international climate centres to monitor developments and has urged governments and communities to strengthen disaster preparedness, clear drainage systems, protect wetlands and discourage settlement in flood-prone areas. 

Climate experts warn that the impacts will extend beyond Uganda, with Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Somalia also at risk due to shared river basins, transport corridors and agricultural markets. Flooding could destroy crops, damage roads and bridges, and disrupt regional trade routes linking the ports of Mombasa and Dar es Salaam with inland markets. 

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has cautioned that a strengthening El Niño could worsen flooding, disease outbreaks and food insecurity, particularly in Somalia, where millions remain reliant on humanitarian assistance. Kenya is also preparing for an elevated flood risk, while Uganda remains vulnerable following severe flooding during previous El Niño episodes. 

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) says warming Pacific Ocean temperatures are expected to strengthen El Niño in the coming months and has urged governments to use current forecasts to prepare early by improving warning systems, protecting infrastructure, and coordinating emergency response plans. 

(Source: The EastAfrican)