The Abia State government in collaboration with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued the 2026 Climate Outlook and Agricultural Advisory, warning farmers of above-normal rainfall for the year.

The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, disclosed that annual rainfall in Abia is expected to range between 1,800mm and 2,200mm, supporting multiple cropping cycles. The rainy season is projected to start between late March and early April, ending between late October and early November, lasting 7–8 months.

Peak rainfall is anticipated in June and September, which could heighten flood risks in low-lying areas. Farmers were advised to: Cultivate raised ridges, ensure proper drainage systems, avoid planting sensitive crops in flood-prone lands.

The advisory also highlighted the short dry spell (August Break) expected between late July and August, lasting 2–3 weeks, recommending: Planting early-maturing and drought-tolerant varieties, practicing staggered planting over 2–3 week, avoiding establishment of sensitive crops during this period

Crop-specific guidance includes: Yam, maize, cassava: plant at the onset of rains (March–April), Rice: plant between May and June

Commissioner Agbaeze also urged farmers to monitor fields for flooding and waterlogging in June and July and to prioritize early-maturing and flood-resistant crop varieties to safeguard yields.