Mr. Joseph Tettey Portuphy, Deputy Director in charge of Synoptic Meteorology and Forecasting at the Ghana Meteorological Agency, has advised on the effects of climate change on rainfall patterns in Ghana.
In an interview on Morning Starr with Lantam Papanko, Mr. Portuphy disclosed that research conducted by the agency predicted a 28-day dry spell, which unfortunately occurred. He attributed the reason to the low maximum threshold of 23, which led to reduced moisture from the ocean, resulting in no cloud formation and subsequently, no rain.
Mr. Portuphy noted that the North-east sector of the country experienced a long dry spell, while the west-east sector received some rainfall. When asked if this was related to climate change, he responded, “Yes and no. Climate change is real, and one of its effects is unpredictability. However, we need to look for patterns over 30 years to confirm its impact.”
He further explained that the agency’s simulations indicated that the cooler sea surface temperature was causing variability in the system, leading to unpredictable rainfall patterns.
Mr. Portuphy advised farmers to grow crops that can withstand drought, stating, “If they are able to grow some crops that can germinate and withstand lesser drought, yes, if they are able to do those ones better.”
Regarding the future outlook, Mr. Portuphy expressed optimism, saying, “We believe that the dry spell has ended, and once it has ended, the sea surface temperature has also picked up. So if it picks up very well, there will be a lot of rain in those areas.”
The expert emphasized the need for farmers to adapt to the changing climate, stating, “So yes, we are expecting that the issue might improve because we’ve come out with the minor seasonal forecast.” He offered to share the forecast with interested parties, saying, “I can send it to you, fill it up if you wish.”
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Deborah Naa Momo Annang
