The month of January is expected to receive more rain compared to the just concluded December, according to the forecast by The Rwanda Meteorology Agency (Meteo Rwanda).
The agency has reported that rainfall recorded across the country in December 2025 was generally below the long-term average typically observed during the final month of the year, which is usually characterized by heavy precipitation.
According to Meteo Rwanda, rainfall measurements from 23 out of 44 weather stations nationwide indicated amounts lower than the normal December average.
This decline was observed in several regions, including the City of Kigali, the Northern and Southern Provinces, and parts of the Western and Eastern Provinces.
Specifically, districts such as Karongi, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Nyamasheke, Rusizi, and Bugesera experienced reduced rainfall compared to what is usually expected during this period.
Despite the decrease, Meteo Rwanda clarified that the below-average rainfall did not have a significant negative impact on agricultural activities.
Crops, particularly those still in critical growth stages requiring sufficient moisture, were not adversely affected, as the rainfall received was adequate to support their development.
Overall, rainfall recorded across Rwanda in December 2025 ranged between 46.3 millimeters and 198.2 millimeters.
The highest amount, 198.2 millimeters, was measured at the Ntendezi weather station in Nyamasheke District, located in the Western Province.
In contrast, the lowest rainfall amount of 46.3 millimeters was recorded at the Nyamiyaga (Paroisse) station in Nyanza District in the Southern Province.
In addition to rainfall patterns, Meteo Rwanda also reported notable changes in temperature conditions across the country.
Maximum temperatures decreased significantly in many areas, while minimum temperatures increased in several regions.
These shifts reflect changing atmospheric conditions during the month.
The average maximum temperatures ranged from 20.7 degrees Celsius, recorded at the Kinigi station in Musanze District in the Northern Province, to 29.3 degrees Celsius at the Bugarama station in Rusizi District in the Western Province.
On the other hand, average minimum temperatures varied between 10.1 degrees Celsius at the Busogo station in Musanze District and 19.9 degrees Celsius at the Bugarama station in Rusizi.
Looking ahead, Meteo Rwanda has announced a wetter outlook for January 2026.
The agency forecasts rainfall amounts ranging between 50 millimeters and 300 millimeters, which is slightly above the long-term average for the month.
Typically, January rainfall in Rwanda ranges between 26 millimeters and 269 millimeters.
The anticipated increase in rainfall is expected to be more pronounced in the Western, Northern, and Southern Provinces, as well as in the City of Kigali and some parts of the Eastern Province.
Meteo Rwanda has advised residents, farmers, and relevant authorities to stay informed and take appropriate measures to benefit from the expected rainfall while minimizing potential risks.
Overall, while December 2025 experienced relatively drier conditions, the forecasted rains in January 2026 present a positive outlook for water availability, agriculture, and ecosystem sustainability across Rwanda.
