Current Weather in Bardaï

The cultural and meteorological awareness of climate in Chad is a diverse culture that strongly reflects the lifestyles and natural views of each region, due to spanning different climatic zones across the north and south of the country. Below are its characteristics.

Significant Regional Differences in Climate Culture

Differences between the Sahel and Savannah Zones

• Northern Chad belongs to the arid Sahel region, while the southern part is part of the rainy savannah region.
• There are clear differences between the rainy and dry seasons, with agricultural culture benefiting from rain in the south and a culture based on pastoralism and a nomadic lifestyle developing in the north.

Emphasis on Water Resources

• Particularly in arid regions, the presence of wells and lakes (such as Lake Chad) is central to life.
• Water is considered sacred, and various regions have rainmaking rituals and water festivals.

Connection between Climate and Belief/Tradition

Traditional Rainmaking Rituals

• To wish for the beginning of the rainy season, rituals, dances, and magical ceremonies have been passed down among various ethnic groups.
• Since the success or failure of crops and grazing depends on rain, there tends to be a deep faith in meteorology.

Meteorological and Spiritual Concepts

• Some ethnic groups view thunder, wind, and extreme drought as spiritual phenomena.
• Weather is not merely a natural phenomenon; there is a strong cultural view that sees it as influenced by ancestral spirits and deities.

Strong Connection between Lifestyle and Weather

Agricultural Calendar and Weather

• Agricultural activities are all planned based on the timing of the rainy season, with climate observations conducted by each household or village.
• Misreading the weather can lead to food shortages, so the weather judgments of elders and local knowledgeable individuals are valued.

Innovations in Housing and Clothing

• Homes are built with mud walls and thatched roofs to cope with strong sunlight and sandstorms, emphasizing ventilation and heat insulation.
• Clothing also incorporates long sleeves and wraps, reflecting wisdom to endure heat and dryness.

Modern Meteorological Challenges and Changes

Effects of Desertification and Climate Change

• The shrinking of Lake Chad and disruptions in rainfall patterns are having serious impacts on daily life due to climate change.
• It has become difficult to practice mobile farming and pastoralism, leading to issues of migration and urban concentration.

Delay in the Spread of Weather Forecasting and Meteorological Education

• Access to accurate weather information is limited to urban areas, with weather observations still primarily reliant on experience and intuition in rural areas.
• The treatment of weather and environmental issues in school education is still limited, and enhancing meteorological education is seen as a challenge.

Summary

Chad's climate awareness has cultural characteristics that combine practical wisdom cultivated through a history of "struggles and coexistence with nature" and spiritual respect. Further exploration is anticipated, including regional differences and responses to future climate changes.