BAMAKO, Mali – Mali’s national meteorological agency, Mali-Météo, issued a weather warning on 9 March informing the public of the substantial increase of temperatures throughout Mali from 9 March until 15 March.
Top temperatures were forecast between 34-45°C, with the hottest readings predicted in the northern regions of the country.
Meteorologists forecast that the heat will impact all regions of Mali as the country reaches the warmest part of the year, which lasts from March-May until the start of the rainy season.
It was predicted that, like most of Mali’s other northern cities and desert regions like Timbuktu, Gao and Kayes which record readings of 40°C every year around this time, these areas would experience the highest readings.
Health risks were advised to increase during the hot weather period, particularly for young children, the elderly and people with illnesses. Residents were advised to drink plenty of water and wear light clothing when outside and limit exposure to direct sunlight.
The weather alert stated that life and the economy would suffer from the high readings of temperatures, due to increased electricity consumption as homes and offices will turn on their cooling appliances to cool their rooms. Farmers and cattle would also struggle, as soil dries quickly and water becomes scarce in the lead up to the rains.
Scientists said heat waves have become more common across the Sahel and West Africa over the past few years, with reports of 45°C during prior warm seasons. The warning remained active through 15 March as meteorologists continue to analyze the current weather data in Mali.
