Joseph Otsibah 
Ghana’s climate is undergoing noticeable changes, and recent weather events provide clear evidence of a shifting climate system. Some of the most striking indicators occurred between December and January, when several parts of the country experienced unusually heavy rainfall during a period traditionally associated with dry Harmattan conditions. At the same time, the Harmattan season was significantly delayed and weaker than expected.
These events are not isolated. They reflect broader climate change and variability trends affecting Ghana and the wider West African region.
Understanding Ghana’s Normal Climate Pattern
Under typical conditions:
– The Harmattan season begins around late November to December, driven by dry, dusty north-easterly trade winds from the Sahara.
– December is usually characterised by low rainfall, dry air, dust haze, and cooler nights. Farming, water availability, and daily livelihoods have long adapted to this predictable seasonal cycle.
However, December 2025 deviated sharply from this norm.
What Happened in December 2025?
- Unseasonal Heavy Rainfall
Rainfall events were recorded in several regions of Ghana in late December and early January 2026. Such rainfall at this time of year is climatologically unusual, particularly in the southern and middle belt regions, which should already be under Harmattan influence.
- Delayed and Weak Harmattan
The expected dry and dusty Harmattan conditions arrived later than usual and were markedly less intense. Humidity levels remained relatively high, while dust concentrations were lower and more sporadic than in previous decades.
Meteorological Explanation
From a meteorological perspective, these anomalies can be attributed to:
- The delayed southward movement of the Inter-Tropical Boundary (ITB), which allowed moisture-laden air from the Gulf of Guinea to persist over Ghana.
- Warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Guinea, which enhanced evaporation and cloud formation.
- Increased atmospheric instability, making rainfall possible even during months traditionally considered dry.
These conditions align with scientific observations that climate change is altering atmospheric circulation patterns across West Africa.
Environmental and Socio-Economic Impacts
- Agriculture and Food Security
Ghana’s agriculture is largely rain-fed. Unpredictable rainfall and shifting seasons disrupt planting and harvesting calendars, increase the risk of crop failure, reduce farmer incomes, and threaten food security.
- Flooding and Environmental Degradation
Unseasonal rains heighten flood risks in urban and low-lying communities, accelerate soil erosion and nutrient loss, and pollute water bodies through runoff.
- Public Health Concerns
Prolonged humidity and irregular rainfall can increase mosquito breeding and vector-borne diseases, affect respiratory health due to fluctuating dust and moisture levels, and strain sanitation and drainage systems.
Climate Change Context
Although Ghana contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it remains highly vulnerable to climate impacts. Long-term climate data already show rising average temperatures, increased rainfall variability, shifts in the timing of dry and wet seasons, and more frequent extreme weather events.
The delayed Harmattan and December/January rainfall are consistent with these long-term trends and should be regarded as early warning signals rather than isolated anomalies.
The Way Forward
To address these growing challenges, Ghana must strengthen:
– Climate monitoring and early warning systems
– Climate-resilient agriculture and water management
– Urban drainage and flood control infrastructure
– Public awareness and community-level climate education
Climate adaptation is no longer optional; it is essential for protecting livelihoods, ecosystems, and national development.
Conclusion
The delayed Harmattan and unusual December/January rainfall serve as a clear reminder that climate change is already affecting Ghana. Recognising these signs early enables us to plan, adapt, and build resilience.
At Eco Impact Network, we believe that informed communities are empowered communities. Understanding Ghana’s changing climate is the first step towards protecting our environment and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
Written by Mrs Gifty Ofori-Yeboah (Executive Director, Eco Impact Network)
About The Author
Joseph Attoh 
