The PNG National Weather Service has forecast frequent rainfall over the first five months of 2017.
The predicted La Nina weather will set in together with the usual wet season. For Papua New Guinea, this means more rainfall than the average rainfall usually experienced in the rainy season.
According to the PNG National Weather Service Director, Samuel Maiha, there will be possibilities of increased risk of flooding, increased risk of bad weather in the oceans, and increased risk of landslides during this wet season.
This weather forecast predicts rainy days for PNG until May 2017.
“…there will be some fine conditions in the middle of this period; and at times there’ll be rains and floods… People ought to be listening to our warnings over the next five or six months,” the Director stated.
Apart from being in risk to rain-causing disasters, Mr Maiha also warned that domestic and cash crops are most likely to be affected by the wet season.
“Some of our commodities will also be affected… If we have a lot of rainfall then our most important agricultural commodity oil palm, will definitely result in less production over the period immediately superseding May(2017)…” added Mr Maiha.
Warnings have being issued to coastal communities and those living alongside river banks to take extra precautions during this wet season, and the general public has also been urged to take heed of warnings and act accordingly.
PNG National Weather Service: SCOPIC seasonal rainfall outlook for January 2017 to March 2017 shows:
Momase Region
The most likely outcome for Madang, Nadzab and Vanimo is below normal. There is little guidance for Wewak as chances of below normal, normal and above normal are similar respectively.
New Guinea Islands Region
Below normal is favoured for Momote and Kavieng.
Highlands Region
Below normal and normal is favoured for Goroka.
Southern Region
Above normal is favoured for Misima and Port Moresby.
Confidence range from low to good.
