Climate change demands better forecasts for farmers

Agriculture, the bedrock of Bangladesh's economy and a direct source of sustenance for millions, is facing unprecedented challenges due to the escalating climate crisis.

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From the paddy fields of Dinajpur to the shrimp farms in Khulna, the nation's agricultural sector is facing heightened uncertainty. So, farmers are questioning the reliability of existing weather and climate forecasts. This critical juncture brings into sharp focus the imperative for accurate and dependable meteorological data to safeguard harvests and ensure food security.

While the terms "weather" and "climate" are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct concepts that play different roles in agriculture. Weather relates to short-term atmospheric conditions, for instance, whether it will rain tomorrow or be sunny later this week. It helps farmers make daily decisions such as when to irrigate, apply fertiliser, or delay harvesting due to an approaching storm.