Come rain or come shine? Study contributes to more accurate forecasting

Abstract

While many of us follow the weatherman only to know find out whether we need to wear a jacket to work, for South Africa’s agricultural community receiving the right type of forecast at the right time can mean the difference between success and failure. Lani van Vuuren takes a look at a Water Research Commission (WRC) funded project aimed at improving rain forecasting for the country’s farmers. Agriculture is the foundation of many developing economies, including South Africa. For this reason it is crucial that South Africa ensures a healthy agricultural industry that continues to contribute to the country’s gross domestic product, food security, social welfare and job creation. The country only has about 1,5% of land under irrigation on about 16% of land, with remaining crop farms being dependent on rainfall.

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