High temperatures to peak from now until between March and April 2024 – GMet

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has advised the public on the recent rising temperature levels, warning that the condition is set to increase further from now to April 2024.

In a statement on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, GMet attributed the expected rise in the temperature to the movement of the sun from the southern hemisphere to the northern hemisphere towards the equator.

“The sun is on its apparent movement from the southern hemisphere towards the northern hemisphere, and it is expected to be on the equator on March 20, 2024. In view of this, an increase in temperature is expected from now through March to April 2024.”

“Maximum temperature ranges of 33 °C to 37 °C and 36 °C to 42 °C are expected over the southern and northern halves, respectively. The minimum temperature is anticipated to range between 22 °C and 27 °C across the country,” the statement said.

According to the Agency, the high temperatures pose serious health risks to the elderly and other vulnerable groups.

GMet further revealed that although March and April are characterised by rainfall, “rains during this period will be less frequent but quite violent.”.

On precautionary steps, GMet directed the public to stay hydrated, find shades or use umbrellas during the peak sunshine hours (11 a.m. and 3 p.m.), choose light-weight and light-coloured clothing, and use sunscreen when spending extended periods outdoors.

The Agency advised keeping close watch over children, limiting outdoor activities, monitoring daily for updates, and seeking medical care where necessary.