The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has urged Malawians to wait until September for a clearer assessment of how the anticipated El Niño weather phenomenon could affect the country.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting on El Niño preparedness, the department’s Director, Lucy Mtilatila, said although there is a high likelihood of El Niño conditions developing, it is too early to determine their exact impact on Malawi before the release of the official seasonal rainfall forecast.

Mtilatila explained that previous experiences have shown that El Niño can bring varying weather outcomes, ranging from prolonged dry spells to above-normal rainfall.

“We need to rely on accurate and updated information as we prepare because historical patterns show that such weather conditions can result in either droughts or heavy rains,” she said.

Meanwhile, Director of the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Wilson Moleni, said the meeting was aimed at promoting early preparedness and minimizing risks associated with potential weather-related disasters, including droughts and floods.

Climate experts say El Niño, which is caused by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, influences weather patterns across the globe. In parts of Africa, including Malawi, the phenomenon is often associated with reduced rainfall, while other regions may experience excessive rains.

Reporter: Aspolo Mousah, Lilongwe