Agrometeorological Dekadal Bulletin-3RD DEKAD OF SEPTEMBER 2026

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AGROMETEOROLOGICAL BULLETIN THIRD DEKAD OF SEPTEMBER 2026

Rainfall: During the third dekad of September 2026, Grand Cape Mount, Lofa and parts of Bomi Gbapolu, Bong and Nimba Counties experienced high amounts of rainfall. Nevertheless, Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee and parts of Grand Gedeh and Sinoe Counties experienced less rainfall during the period, while moderate rainfall was observed across other parts of the country. Nationwide, accumulated rainfall ranged from 12.7 mm to 143.4 mm during the third dekad of September 2026.

SMI: During the third dekad of September 2026, soil moisture conditions were above normal condition in most parts of the country. However, Maryland, Grand Kru, Rivergee, Sinoe and Grand Gedeh Counties experienced below normal soil moisture condition.

Maximum Temperature: The third dekad of September 2026 was marked by variation in maximum temperature across the country. Nimba and parts of Bong, Grand Bassa, Rivercess and Grand Gedeh Counties experienced highest maximum temperature while Lofa, Grand Kru, Maryland and parts of Sinoe and Rivergee, Counties recorded relatively low maximum temperature. The other parts of the country experienced moderate maximum temperature. During this period, maximum temperature was observed between 26.6° C and 27.9°C.

Minimum Temperature: The third dekad of September 2026 was characterized by variation in minimum temperature. The southern and central parts of the country experienced relatively high minimum temperature, while the northern region experienced the lowest. Minimum temperature during this period ranged from 21.8°C to 25.9°C.

PET: During the third Dekad of September 2026, the north of the country experienced intense sunshine with high evapotranspiration rates. Nevertheless, the southern (coastal) region experienced lowest evapotranspiration rate while the central region experienced moderate evapotranspiration rate.

October weather outlook

Rainfall: In October 2026, rainfall is expected to decrease across the country. However, Maryland, Grand Kru, Sinoe, and parts of Grand Gedeh, Rivercess, Montserrado and Bomi counties are anticipated to experience high rainfall during this period. Nevertheless, rainfall is expected to decrease in parts of Lofa Bong and Nimba counties. The total monthly rainfall is expected to range from 270.4mm to 643.7mm.

Relative Humidity: In October 2026, high average relative humidity is expected to increase in Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, Gbapolu, Nimba, Grand and Lofa counties. Nevertheless, Margibi, Grand Bassa, Sinoe, Grand Kru, and Maryland are predicted to experience low relative humidity during this period. Average relative humidity during the month is forecasted to range between 84.4% and 92.3%

Maximum Temperature: Maximum temperature in October 2026 is anticipated to range between 27.7°C to 30.8°C across the Country. Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, Gbapolu and Lofa counties are anticipated to experience high maximum temperature. Margibi, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Sinoe, Grand Kru Rivergee and Maryland counties are anticipated to experience low maximum temperature. However, moderate maximum temperature is expected in the other parts of the country.

Minimum (Nighttime) Temperature: In October 2026 minimum temperature across the country is anticipated to range between 21.9°C and 27.0° C. The highest minimum temperature is anticipated to occur along the coastal region including counties such as Maryland, Grand Kru, Sinoe, Rivercess, Grand Bassa, Margibi, Montserrado, Bomi and Grand Cape Mount counties while the lowest minimum temperature is expected in Lofa and parts of Gbapolu, Bong and Nimba Counties. The other parts of the country are anticipated to experience moderate minimum temperature.

Farmers adversory:

As the cropping season gradually draws to a close, increased rainfall across the western and central parts of the country has resulted in progressively saturated soils. Meanwhile, parts of the southeastern region experienced reduced rainfall and declining soil moisture conditions during the third dekad of September. The forecasted rainfall during the month of October may significantly affect harvesting activities and agricultural production. In this regard, farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and agro-industries are advised to take the following precautions to minimize potential impacts on agricultural activities:

Farmers across the country are advised to take extra care in their farming activities because heavy rainfall is expected to continue. Too much rain can cause harvested crops and other farm products to spoil. It can also damage crops, delay harvesting, interrupt farm work, and make it difficult to transport farm products. Farmers are therefore encouraged to regularly check weather updates, keep farm inputs and harvested products in safe and dry places, and avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers, or other waterways during periods of heavy rain.

Farmers are also encouraged to regularly check their crops, as continued rainfall and wet conditions may increase the risk of pests and crop diseases. If pests or diseases are noticed, farmers should take action early by using recommended farming practices and approved pesticides, where necessary, to reduce crop damage and loss.

Note: Farmers should seek advice from agricultural extension officers before using pesticides or taking measures to control pests and diseases.

Livestock producers are encouraged to keep their animals in well-protected shelters, as increased rainfall can contribute to the spread of infectious animal diseases. Prolonged wet conditions may also increase the incidence of respiratory illnesses and other health complications. However, extended dry periods can expose livestock to heat stress, water shortages, reduced feed availability, and an increased risk of disease. Therefore, livestock producers are advised to closely monitor their animals for signs of illness, heat stress, dehydration, or any abnormal behavior that may indicate disease or distress. If any symptoms are observed, prompt veterinary intervention and appropriate management measures should be taken to safeguard animal health, welfare, and productivity.

Vegetable producers are advice to continued their farming activities upland and are strongly encouraged to properly design and lay out their fields, including the use of appropriate drainage and soil conservation practices, to minimize the risk of soil erosion and nutrient loss during period of heavy rainfall events.