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 More than a
normal rain fall is expected,
according to climate forecast for
this year's wet season, 2008, with
at least 635 mm of rainfall in The
Gambia.
Reports from
the Department of Water Resources
stated that the climate forecast for
this year's wet season is a combined
product of the National
Meteorological Services within the
sub-region and beyond, and the
Department of Water Resources.
A seasonal
forecast, according to the
department, relies on prediction of
averages over space and time, and
may not reflect all the various
factors that influence regional and
national climate differences.
"It is
relevant only for the entire season
and within relatively large areas,
since local and month-to-month
variations may occur. Rainfall
results are usually expressed as
being either below normal, normal,
or above normal, with normal
rainfall defined as the average
rainfall during a 30-year period."
"Forecast is
only valid for the combined period
of July, August and September, when
approximately 80% of the total
seasonal rainfall occurs in the
sub-region, including The Gambia."
"As at now,
the above forecast is based on the
best estimate of the impact of the
various factors affecting rainfall
in the country, and would be updated
on a monthly basis, starting from
the end of June 2008," the reports
concluded.
Source:The Daily Observer (Banjul)
5 June 2008
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