BE 'RAIN-VIGILANT' THIS YEAR

As the Sector Minister over the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), the Minister for Communication, Digital Technologies, Innovation, and Member of Parliament for the Ningo–Prampram constituency, Hon Sam George took up the role of a weatherman to present the 2026 major rainy season forecast.

The forecast, which focused mainly on Southern Ghana, came with key advisories for agriculture; disasters risk management, local and district authorities, (MMDAs), water resources, the health sector, policy makers and the general public. The forecast covers the February to July 2026 rainy season.

When Will the Rains Start?

In his forecast for the agric sector, the Hon Minister announced that the onset (beginning) of the 2026 rainy season is expected to be normal to slightly early across most coastal and transition zones. However, farmers in Sunyani, Dunkwa, Sefwi Bekwai, Abetifi, Akim Oda, Akuse, Asamankese, Ho, Kpando, Axim, and Saltpond should anticipate a late onset and wait for sustained rainfall before planting or committing to major investments.

What Volumes of Rain Will Come Down?

He further stated that below-normal (volumes) of rainfall is expected in Dormaa, Sunyani, Mim, Goaso, Cape Coast, Accra, and Tema during March to May, increasing the risk of early-season moisture stress (ie., lack of good volumes of rain necessary for sowing/planting).

For How Long Will Rains NOT Fall?

According to the minister, two significant dry spell periods (days without rain) are forecast: the first in March to April (6 to 15 days) and the second in May to June (9 to 19 days), which may disrupt crop performance and strain water sources, especially in forest zone farming communities.

To that end, Hon. Sam George advised farmers to adopt early maturing and drought-tolerant crop varieties suited to this season's conditions; consult agricultural extension officers on optimal planting windows before committing to the land; and plan for supplementary irrigation or water conservation practices during dry spell periods.

 Will There Be MORE THAN Enough Days of Rains?

In Sefwi Bekwai and Half Assini, where a longer-than-normal season is projected, Sam George noted that late planting may be feasible but should be carefully planned.

GMet & MoFA Dey For You!

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) prompted the public that conditions vary significantly from district to district. They therefore advised farmers to regularly consult GMet offices nationwide and local Agric Extension Officers every step of the way throughout the season for credible advice.

Hon. Sam George, who named himself a weatherman for the day, gave the forecasts in Accra, as he launched the 2026 Meteorological Awareness Month.