Anticipation and coordination mechanisms are being strengthened in Senegal as the 2026 rainy season approaches. Meeting in Diamniadio on Thursday, April 23, 2026, within the framework of the National Flood Management Committee (CNGI), administrative authorities, local elected officials and community actors exchanged views on the country's level of preparedness, seasonal forecasts and priority measures to be implemented.

During this meeting, the technical services, including the National Agency for Civil Aviation and Meteorology (ANACIM) and the Directorate of Water Resources Management and Planning (DGPRE), presented the expected trends for the 2026 rainy season. Forecasts marked by risks of rainy episodes that could lead to flooding in certain areas, in a context of increased climate variability.

In the room, the atmosphere oscillated between mobilization and concern. Several local elected officials emphasized the persistent difficulties on the ground. "Every rainy season, the same neighborhoods reappear on the flood map, despite the warnings," lamented one mayor, calling for more structural solutions.

In response to these concerns, the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Cheikh Tidiane Dièye, highlighted the efforts undertaken to strengthen preparedness. "We are heading towards a rainy season that could be normal, but with risks of extreme weather events linked to climate change," he stated, calling for preparations based on prudent assumptions.

He also gave a generally satisfactory assessment of the 2025 rainy season, while acknowledging that difficulties remain in some areas. This situation, he said, justifies continuing the actions already undertaken, particularly through the National Strategy for Integrated Flood Risk Management.

Enhanced technical tools to improve forecasting and early warning

Among the measures announced are strengthening forecasting capacities, establishing early warning systems, and deploying a digital platform to improve the monitoring of interventions. This tool is intended, in particular, to enable better coordination among stakeholders and real-time visibility of actions carried out on the ground.

Major infrastructure projects are also underway in several exposed cities, following a sustainable development approach. However, authorities believe the response remains gradual. "This isn't a phenomenon that can be resolved in one or two years," acknowledged the minister, emphasizing the need for a medium- and long-term approach to flood management.

In this context, the stakes go beyond simply preparing for the 2026 rainy season. Between technological advances and persistent vulnerabilities, flood management remains a structural challenge, closely linked to the effects of climate change and the limitations of urban planning. It remains to be seen whether, this time, anticipation will be enough to prevent the rainy season from once again bringing emergencies to the most exposed areas.