The City of Kigali has stepped up calls for preparedness as meteorological agencies forecast heavy rainfall during the upcoming March–May 2026 rainy season, warning of potential floods, landslides and related hazards.
The alert follows a regional outlook issued by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), which projects above-average rainfall across much of East Africa, with seasonal totals ranging between 250 and 550 millimeters.
In Rwanda, Meteo Rwanda has indicated that Kigali is likely to receive between 280 and 480 millimeters of rainfall over the same period. Northern parts of Gasabo District could see even heavier downpours, with estimates ranging from 480 to 680 millimeters.
Citing these forecasts, city authorities are urging residents to take proactive measures to minimize risks associated with extreme weather.
Among the priority actions, residents are encouraged to assess the structural integrity of their homes and carry out necessary repairs without delay. Those living in houses deemed vulnerable to disasters are advised to seek authorization and reinforce them early.
The city has also called on residents to evaluate whether their neighborhoods are prone to flooding or landslides. Individuals living in high-risk zones are urged to consider relocating to safer areas to avoid putting their lives and families in danger.
Authorities further emphasized the importance of fastening rooftops securely using appropriate materials to withstand strong winds that often precede heavy rains.
Clearing drainage channels and ensuring water runoff systems are functioning properly is another key recommendation, aimed at preventing urban flooding during periods of intense rainfall.
Beyond risk mitigation, the city is encouraging residents to seize the rainy season as an opportunity for environmental conservation. Kigali residents are being urged to prepare tree-planting pits and organic manure in advance so they can plant and nurture trees once the rains set in.
City officials stressed that disaster prevention requires collective responsibility.
“Together, let us prevent disasters and build a green, safe and environmentally resilient city,” the statement said.
With forecasts pointing to significant rainfall in the months ahead, authorities say early action at the household and community level will be critical in reducing the impact of potential disasters.
