The Ministry of Transport’s Meteorology Division has presented a detailed forecast covering Liberia’s weather outlook for 2024 and the anticipated agricultural seasons of 2025. Speaking on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Weather Forecaster Steven B. Jones and Agro-Meteorological Engineer Mr. James L. Kollie provided insights into rainfall patterns, flood risks, and agricultural recommendations aimed at mitigating climate impacts.
Jones opened by outlining the history and evolution of meteorology in Liberia, noting its establishment in the 19th century at Roberts International Airport. He said the Meteorology Department falls under the Ministry of Transport and focuses on delivering accurate and timely forecasts to support socio-economic development and advising the government on climate-related matters.
The 2024 rainfall forecast revealed significant regional variations. Areas in the southeast to central Liberia experienced above-normal rainfall, leading to widespread flooding, particularly in Monrovia’s Jes Clarity Community, where flooding disrupted traffic and daily activities.
The forecasters emphasized the influence of sea surface temperatures on weather trends and cooler ocean temperatures (indicated in dark blue) and warmer ones (shown in red) affect rainfall distribution.
The team’s forecast, developed in collaboration with regional and international meteorological centers, indicated predominantly neutral sea surface conditions for Liberia in 2025, forecasting moderate rainfall.
They broke down the rainy season into three parts, May to July, July to August, and August to September. The meteorologists predicted that central and western Liberia would likely receive above-average rainfall early in the season.
Furthermore, these conditions raise concerns about flooding, waterborne diseases, power outages, and potential damage to infrastructure and transportation networks. Kollie detailed the agricultural outlook, forecasting an early but shortened growing season for many regions.
He advised farmers to select crop varieties with short growing cycles and to prepare for flooding by relocating livestock to higher ground. According to him, Specific areas such as Bomi County and parts of western Liberia can expect a normal start to the agricultural season, while others may experience early starts or ends.
The Meteorology Division urged Liberians to heed early weather warnings and work collaboratively with meteorological authorities to prepare for the coming season. He said accurate forecasts are critical to safeguarding agriculture, energy infrastructure, and transport systems.
