Egypt's climate center has issued a warning for rainfall in several regions, including the Western Desert, northern and central Upper Egypt, and parts of the New Valley and Sohag. According to Dr. Muhammad Ali Fahim, head of the climate center, satellite images show high and medium clouds flowing into these areas, with rain expected in Luxor and Aswan.
The climate center has observed low and medium clouds on the northwestern coast and northern coastal areas, with chances of rain of varying intensity. Dr. Fahim urged farmers to stop irrigation in areas expected to experience rain, especially where rain-bearing clouds are already gathering. He also advised against adding new water to the soil until moisture levels are assessed.
Dr. Fahim emphasized the importance of not operating automatic irrigation networks during rainfall to avoid increasing soil moisture. He also recommended monitoring agricultural drains to ensure they are not clogged, especially in heavy and low-lying areas, to mitigate the risk of flooding and root suffocation.
The climate center head advised farmers to postpone spraying pesticides and foliar nutrients in areas expected to experience rain, as the compounds may be washed away, reducing their effectiveness. He also recommended monitoring sensitive crops, especially newly planted ones, for signs of fungal diseases that thrive in humid conditions.
Dr. Fahim noted that even after the rain ends, farmers should not immediately return to their regular irrigation schedules. Instead, they should assess the crop's water needs based on actual rainfall, soil moisture, and crop type. He also pointed out that the onset of the autumnal rainfall pattern may extend to inland areas, necessitating a review of irrigation programs.
According to Dr. Fahim, the expected rain requires a review of irrigation programs, while actual rainfall necessitates a reassessment of crop water needs. He stressed the importance of taking precautions to protect crops from potential damage caused by excessive rainfall and humidity.
The climate center's warning is based on the latest satellite images, which indicate a high probability of rainfall in the coming days. Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their crops and ensure optimal growing conditions. The center will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates as necessary.
Key points
- Egyptian climate center warns of rainfall in several regions, advising farmers to take precautions.
- Farmers urged to stop irrigation in areas expected to experience rain and monitor agricultural drains.
- Climate center recommends postponing pesticide and nutrient spraying in areas expected to experience rain.
