GMet Calls for National Preparedness as Strong El Niño Threat Develops

ACCRA, GHANA — The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has called attention to the potential effects of a developing strong-to-very-strong El Niño event in 2026–2027, urging preparedness across sectors exposed to changes in rainfall and temperature.

In an assessment published on October 30, GMet said past El Niño episodes have demonstrated Ghana's vulnerability to rainfall variability, with possible implications for agriculture, water resources, hydroelectric generation and public health. The agency cautioned, however, that El Niño does not affect every part of Ghana in the same way.

GMet reported that parts of southern Ghana experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall and flooding in June 2026, while prolonged dry spells later affected farming activities in some northern areas. Its updated seasonal outlooks pointed to predominantly normal-to-below-normal rainfall across much of the country, with some areas forecast to receive above-normal rainfall.

The agency also expects above-average temperatures in many locations, although conditions may vary across regions. It stressed that the influence of El Niño depends partly on conditions in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and that damaging weather can occur even in years without El Niño.

The assessment underscores the value of regular local forecasts for farmers, water managers, energy planners and the public. It should not be read as a prediction that drought or flooding will occur in every community.

Source: Ghana Meteorological Agency, October 30, 2026 assessment, 'The Developing Very Strong El Niño Event (2026–27): Implications for Ghana and Recommended National Preparedness Measures.' https://www.meteo.gov.gh/publications/the-developing-very-strong-el-ni%C3%B1o-event-2026-27-implications-for-ghana-and-recommended-national-preparedness-measures/