Above-normal rain coming in 2026 – Abia govt, MiMET tell Abia farmers
Abia State Government Issues 2026 Climate Outlook for Farmers
The Abia State government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), has released the 2026 Climate Outlook and Agricultural Advisory for farmers. This report indicates that the state is expected to experience above-normal rainfall in 2026.
Cliff Agbaeze, the Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, announced the forecast on Monday, emphasizing that the advisory aims to provide essential guidance for a productive farming season. According to the NiMET report, annual rainfall totals are projected to range between 1,800 millimeters and 2,200 millimeters.
Agbaeze noted that the rainy season is anticipated to begin between late March and early April, lasting approximately 7 to 8 months, with an expected conclusion between late October and early November. He highlighted that the predicted rainfall pattern will support multiple cropping cycles.
However, he cautioned that peak rainfall, anticipated in June, could increase the risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. “Farmers are advised to cultivate raised ridges, establish proper drainage systems, and avoid planting sensitive crops in flood-prone lands,” Agbaeze stated.
The advisory also mentioned a short dry spell, commonly referred to as the August Break, which is expected to occur between late July and August, lasting about 2 to 3 weeks. It recommends that farmers plant early-maturing and drought-tolerant crop varieties during this period and to practice staggered planting over 2 to 3 weeks.
Specific planting recommendations include cultivating yam, maize, and cassava at the onset of rainfall between March and April, while rice should be planted between May and June.
Agbaeze urged farmers to monitor their fields closely to mitigate the risks of flooding and waterlogging, particularly in June and July, and to focus on planting early-maturing and flood-resistant crop varieties.
