Dry Spell: We forecasted and made it known to relevant stakeholders — Deputy GMet Director

Madam Francisca Martey, Head of Research and Deputy Director in Applied Meteorology at the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has confirmed that the current 'Dry Spell' was accurately forecasted by the agency.

She emphasized that all relevant data and information were shared with stakeholders, including Agric Extension Officers under the AICCRA project.

The AICCRA project, or Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa, operates in six countries and aims to transform climate services and promote climate-smart agriculture. This initiative benefits millions of small-scale farmers across Africa by providing access to CGIAR innovations.

In an interview with GBC Radio Central Morning Show on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Madam Martey discussed the 'Dry Spell' and the government's recent decision to ban the export of maize, rice, and soybeans. She explained that a dry spell is a period of reduced precipitation, leading to water shortages. Even though precipitation levels vary from year to year, a dry spell is characterized by a continuous sunny period during what is typically the rainy season.

Madam Martey further elaborated that if a sunny interval interrupts the rainy season for 9 to 10 consecutive days, it is classified as a 'Dry Spell.' If this period extends up to 30 days, it is considered one long dry spell. She noted that while this is not necessarily a harmful phenomenon, it can become problematic when it coincides with the flowering stage of crops, causing them to wither and reducing yields.

To mitigate the effects of dry spells, Madam Martey stressed the importance of collaboration between farmers and extension officers. She encouraged farmers to plant early-yielding crops and to heed advice from Extension Officers, supported by GMet forecasts.

Based on historical data, Madam Martey explained that normal dry spells range between 7 and 15 days, depending on the local rainy season patterns. However, when sunshine exceeds 9 to 10 consecutive days of rainfall interruption, it is officially termed a dry spell.

When asked about the potential for a looming hunger crisis, Madam Martey reassured the public that with proper measures in place, there is no need for panic. She expressed confidence that any potential famine could be averted.