THE Igad Climate Predictions and Application Center (ICPAC) has issued a warning about the potential for elevated heat stress across much of the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA) in the coming days.

According to ICPAC's weekly forecast, above-average temperatures are expected to affect large portions of the region, particularly South Sudan and southeastern Tanzania. The climate experts predict temperatures exceeding 32°C in parts of eastern South Sudan, with most of the GHA experiencing moderate to high temperatures between 20-32°C.

“Mild temperature conditions of less than 20°C are expected over parts of northern Sudan, the Ethiopian highlands, and central to western Kenya,” said the ICPAC statement.

The forecasts also indicate significant temperature anomalies, with much of the region experiencing warmer than usual conditions. Cooler-than-usual temperatures are anticipated in parts of Somalia’s coastal regions and parts of Kenya.

Particularly concerning, climate scientists have highlighted that the forecasted temperatures could lead to elevated heat stress in several areas, including most of South Sudan, eastern Tanzania, southern Sudan, southern Somalia, and eastern Kenya. These conditions could significantly impact both human health and agriculture in these areas.

Rainfall is expected to be moderate in some areas, with amounts ranging from 50 to 200 millimetres in southern Tanzania over the coming week. Light rainfall, under 50 millimetres, is also expected over parts of southern and central Tanzania, a few regions in coastal Kenya, southwestern South Sudan, and the Red Sea coast.

However, the forecast also suggests that many parts of Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi may experience less rainfall than usual, exacerbating the dry conditions that some areas are already facing.

The region's vulnerability to climate change is becoming more apparent, and experts warn that these extreme conditions could have a lasting impact on both ecosystems and local populations.