
In the coming month of May 2025, the meteorological forecast information indicates that the seasonal rainfall activity is expected to better moisture both in quantity and distribution than the previous Belg months. In line with this, in most parts of the country expected slight to heavy rain fall. This situation might be expect to improve moisture requirement of Belg crops found at different phases of growth, perennial plants, pasture and drinking water availability in pastoral and agro pastoral areas and the anticipated better rainfall distribution towards the western half of the country would favour sowing activities of cereal crops like maize and sorghum and land preparation for the coming Meher season as well. Moreover the expected heavy rains over south, southeast, southwest and adjacent areas of Rift Valley will create favourable conditions for the on-going agricultural activities However, the expected heavy fall over some areas of the aforementioned areas would have a negative impact on crop fields’ particularly over low-lying areas and near river banks. Thus, proper attention should be undertaken to minimize the risk in areas where there is no proper drainage system and low-lying areas making furrow and channel in order to reduce the effect of excess rain. On the contrary the expected improvement in moisture may also give good opportunity for collecting and storing of excessive rain water particularly for moisture stress areas and this may provide them a good chance to utilize it where that can be used in time of deficit.