Current Weather in Keren

Cultural and Meteorological Awareness of Climate in Eritrea

Eritrea's climate awareness is deeply rooted in the diverse climatic zones of the country and its traditional lifestyles. In a coexistence of the cool climate of the highlands and the tropical climate of the lowlands, people live in harmony with the natural environment, where weather information and a sense of seasons influence the rhythms of life and culture.

Diverse Climates and Life Adaptation

Climate Differences Between Highlands and Lowlands

• Eritrea features significant elevation differences, with the highlands being relatively cool and dry, while the lowlands are hot and humid.
• Different regions have varying crops and housing structures, forming lifestyles adapted to the respective climates.

Traditional Innovations in Clothing, Food, and Shelter

• In the highlands, clothing and heating adaptations address nighttime cooling.
• In the lowlands, breathable clothing and sun protection are emphasized.

Seasonal Changes and Agriculture and Events

Rhythm of Rainy and Dry Seasons

• Eritrea is mainly divided into the rainy season (June to September) and the dry season (October to May), influencing the agricultural cycle.
• The arrival of the rainy season signals the start of sowing and is linked to local harvest festivals and traditional events.

Relationship Between Traditional Events and Climate

• Harvest festivals and religious celebrations occur at seasonal junctures, embodying gratitude to nature and prayers.
• Weather fluctuations often impact the timing and content of these events.

Utilization of Weather Information and Challenges

Current State of Weather Information Distribution

• In urban areas, weather information is accessible through radio and smartphones, but it is limited in rural areas.
• Improving the accuracy of weather forecasts and strengthening information dissemination are prioritized for ensuring community safety.

Disaster Preparedness and Weather Awareness

• Preparations for weather disasters such as droughts and floods are progressing through both traditional knowledge and modern disaster prevention measures.
• Community-level disaster training and the implementation of early warning systems remain challenges.

Weather and Cultural Values

Spirit of Coexistence with Nature

• Eritrean culture possesses a value system that respects harmony with nature, accepting climate changes as a part of life.
• Changes in weather and seasons are symbolically expressed in poetry, folklore, and daily practices.

Changing Awareness of Climate Change

• Recent impacts of climate change (e.g., frequent droughts) are gradually altering people's awareness of climate issues.
• Interest in environmental protection and sustainable resource use is steadily increasing.

Summary

Cultural and meteorological awareness of climate in Eritrea is intertwined with traditional wisdom and modern information within diverse climatic environments, deeply embedded in regional lifestyles and cultures. Moving forward, the dissemination of weather information, strengthening of disaster preparedness, and responses to climate change will become significant societal challenges.