TMA warns Tanzanian regions of oncoming rains, severe thunderstorms

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has issued a warning of rainfall and thunderstorms expected in various parts of the country from January 1 to 10, 2026. According to the forecast, some areas are likely to experience light rainfall, while others will receive rain accompanied by thunderstorms.

TMA emphasized that the forecast is intended to alert the public to take necessary precautions, particularly in areas expected to experience heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

According to the statement, regions in the Lake Victoria Basin—namely Kagera, Geita, Shinyanga, Mwanza, Simiyu, and Mara—are expected to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in several areas.

In the Northeastern Highlands, the regions of Arusha, Manyara, and Kilimanjaro are expected to experience light rainfall, especially during the first five days of January.

In the Northern Coast areas, including the Tanga Region, the northern parts of Morogoro, Dar es Salaam, as well as the islands of Unguja and Pemba, rainfall is expected to occur in different intervals.

TMA further reported that in the western parts of the country, the regions of Kigoma, Katavi, and Tabora are likely to experience rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in some areas.

The Central Zone, which includes Dodoma and Singida regions, is also expected to receive rainfall with thunderstorms, particularly during the first five days of January.

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In the Southwestern Highlands, the regions of Rukwa, Songwe, Mbeya, Njombe, and Iringa are forecast to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in some areas.

Meanwhile, the Southern Coast regions of Mtwara and Lindi are expected to experience light rainfall.

Additionally, the Southern Zone, including Ruvuma Region and the southern parts of Morogoro, is expected to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in some areas.

TMA has advised farmers and the general public to closely follow weather forecasts and plan their activities accordingly to avoid losses, particularly in the agricultural sector.