Rwanda is preparing for a rainy season that could bring more rain than usual between September and December 2026. Meteo Rwanda has forecast a high chance of above-normal rainfall across the country, while authorities are encouraging people to prepare early for possible floods, landslides and other problems caused by heavy rain.
Heavy rain can affect almost everyone. It can make roads difficult to use, cause flooding, damage homes, interrupt electricity and make it harder for people to move from one place to another. For farmers, too much rain can also damage crops and soil.
The good news is that simple preparation can reduce many of these problems.
People should start by checking their homes. Roofs, gutters, windows and doors should be checked for places where water can enter. Gutters and drainage areas around the home should also be cleaned so that water can flow away easily. Leaves, plastic bags, soil and other rubbish can block drainage and cause water to collect around a house.
People should also avoid building or staying in areas that are at high risk of flooding or landslides. If you live near a river, steep hill or area where water usually collects, pay attention to weather warnings and be ready to move to a safer place if authorities advise you to do so.
During heavy rain, it is important to be careful when travelling. Roads can become slippery; visibility can become poor and some areas may flood quickly. People should avoid walking or driving through moving floodwater because it may be deeper or stronger than it appears.
It is also useful to keep important items in a safe and dry place. Important documents, phones, chargers, medicines, clothes and other valuable items should be protected from water. Having a torch, drinking water and some basic food at home can also be helpful if heavy rain makes it difficult to leave the house.
Families should also talk about what they would do in an emergency. Children should know where to go if there is flooding, and family members should know how to contact each other. People should also follow information from Meteo Rwanda and local authorities instead of relying only on rumours shared on social media.
Heavy rain can also increase the risk of diseases when water becomes contaminated or stagnant. People should keep their surroundings clean, drink safe water and avoid contact with dirty floodwater whenever possible.
The coming rainy months do not have to be a time of fear. They should be a time of preparation. A small action such as cleaning a drainage area, repairing a leaking roof or paying attention to an official weather warning can prevent a much bigger problem later.
As the rain season approaches, everyone has a role to play in keeping themselves, their families and their communities safe.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10