Ghana Faces Drought and Bushfire Risks, Meteorologists Warn

KEY POINTS

• Ghana is expected to face prolonged dry spells and increased bushfire risks.
• GMet starts public awareness initiatives about climate preparedness education.
• Environmental disasters affecting Ghana pose dangers to both its economy and its food supply systems.

Ghana is bracing for prolonged dry spells that could threaten agriculture, water availability, and increase the risk of bushfires, according to the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet).

The meteorological agency forecasts dry seasons between eight to sixteen days in its 2025 seasonal forecast to impact southern and central regions heavily.

The GMet Deputy Director Francisca Martey announced at the launch of Meteorological Awareness Month that residents should make preparations against both plant loss and forest fires triggered by long stretches of dry weather.

According to Graphic Online, she urged farmers to adopt drought-resistant crops and recommended water storage measures to manage the anticipated shortages.

A prolonged drought of 13 days is predicted during the early season in Accra, Tema, Ada and Akatsi while the late season in Wenchi, Bui and Sefwi Bekwai would encounter droughts exceeding 16 days.

Meteorological awareness campaign aims to educate the public

The public awareness campaign of GMet includes increased reach through marketing initiatives in markets, outreach at public transportation stations and street venues to educate citizens about climate threats and weather safety.

The agency started “Dawuro Campaign” to translate weather forecasts into local languages before releasing information through various radio and television and digital channels.

“We want to ensure that the seasonal forecast is accessible to everyone, so they can make informed decisions,” Martey stated.

Additionally, GMet works together with the Ga Traditional Council, Parliament and climate advocacy groups to raise public knowledge about climate risks and enhance preparedness strategies across every level.

Economic risks and national preparedness

The economic foundation of Ghana depends heavily on weather patterns because farming, water resources and energy supply remain at risk from climate impacts.

Throughout his address, GMet Director-General Eric Asuman indicated that early warning systems need immediate improvement, as Ghana experiences severe weather situations such as the 2015 twin natural disaster, the 2023 Akosombo dam flood and persistent dry seasons in the northern territory.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported in 2023 how African nations suffer GDP decreases between two to five percent every year from climate-related disasters.

To mitigate future risks, Asuman urged the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) to develop an economic indicator for weather and climate services, enabling policymakers to integrate climate risks into national planning.

“We must take proactive measures to protect our economy and communities from the growing impact of climate change,” he emphasized.