‘Don’t Panic’ – Lesotho Government Urges Calm Over El Niño Drought Fears

The government has urged Basotho not to panic over forecasts of an emerging El Niño weather pattern, stressing that while the coming rainy season could bring below-average rainfall, it does not automatically mean Lesotho will experience a drought. Minister of Environment and Forestry, Thabo Mofosi, said the country’s weather outlook points to a high likelihood of El Niño conditions developing ahead of the 2026/27 summer rainfall season. However, he cautioned that Lesotho’s climate was influenced by several weather systems and not El Niño alone.

Speaking at a media briefing yesterday on the country’s climate outlook, Mr Mofosi said forecasts indicate an increased probability of below-normal rainfall rather than a complete failure of seasonal rains. “These conditions do not mean Lesotho will receive no rain at all,” he said. “The forecast indicates a high probability of below-average rainfall rather than a guaranteed drought.” He said the government was encouraging farmers to begin preparing now, particularly with the main summer cropping season approaching.

Mr Mofosi urged farmers to focus on water conservation, harvesting and protection of water sources, and to consider planting drought-resistant crop varieties where necessary. His remarks came after the Lesotho Meteorological Services (LMS) released its seasonal climate outlook, indicating much of the country is likely to receive near-normal to above-normal precipitation during winter, though the western lowlands may see below-normal rainfall.

The LMS said it is closely monitoring El Niño and working with the Disaster Management Authority (DMA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) under the Anticipatory Action initiative to prepare for potential impacts. While El Niño has caused severe drought in Lesotho in the past, it has also resulted in normal or above-average rainfall in certain parts of the country. The LMS will issue updated forecasts ahead of the critical October-to-March rainy season.

Article and image source: lestimes.com