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.