Abnormal Heat, Drought and Flood Risks Persist Across South Sudan in Latest Global Weather Outlook
Credit: RFI
South Sudan is expected to continue facing a combination of extreme weather conditions, including abnormal heat, prolonged drought in some areas, and flooding in others, according to the latest Global Weather Hazards Summary covering July 9–15, 2026.
The report says inundation continues in the Sudd wetlands, while drought conditions have persisted in southern parts of the country after more than eight weeks of below-average rainfall.
Over the past month, significant rainfall deficits have affected large parts of South Sudan, alongside neighboring Uganda, western Kenya, eastern Central African Republic, northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and parts of Ethiopia and Eritrea. The prolonged lack of rainfall has worsened moisture shortages and increased drought concerns.
Despite the widespread dryness, parts of western South Sudan experienced heavy rainfall of between 75 and 150 millimeters during the past week, creating localized moisture surpluses.
Looking ahead, forecasters expect below-normal rainfall across eastern South Sudan, while southeastern parts of the country are forecast to experience abnormally high temperatures. Maximum temperatures are expected to exceed 35 degrees Celsius, with heat anomalies ranging between 2°C and 8°C above average.
The report warns that the continued combination of heat and rainfall deficits could negatively affect agriculture, livestock, water availability, and food security, particularly in drought-affected communities.
Across the wider East African region, severe rainfall shortages have expanded across Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda, and western Kenya, while heavy rains in western Ethiopia have increased the risk of flash floods.
The Global Weather Hazards Summary is produced through collaboration between international agencies, including FEWS NET, NOAA, NASA, USGS, and USDA, to monitor weather extremes that may affect crops, pasture, and livelihoods.
