Current Weather in Antananarivo

The relationship between climate and culture in Madagascar is deeply rooted in the lifestyle brought about by its geographical diversity and tropical climate. In many regions, coexistence with nature is emphasized, and this influence is prominently reflected in agriculture, festivals, and the structure of dwellings.

Differences in Regional Culture Brought About by Diverse Climates

The Impact of Topography and Climate

• The climate varies greatly by region, with tropical rainforests in the east, arid zones in the west, and temperate climates in the highlands.
• Various agricultural forms adapted to each region (rice farming, vanilla cultivation, livestock farming, etc.) have developed.

Climate and Architectural Style

• In high-temperature and high-humidity areas, there are many thatched roofs and wooden houses that prioritize ventilation.
• In areas with little rainfall, earthen-walled houses and materials resistant to dryness are used, reflecting wisdom suited to climate conditions.

The Connection Between Calendar and Agricultural Culture

Tradition of the Agricultural Calendar

• The agricultural calendar is based on the lunar calendar, maintaining a cycle of sowing with the arrival of the rainy season and harvesting during the dry season.
• Agricultural rituals and harvest festivals are strongly linked to the weather and lunar phases.

"Famadihana" and Climate

• The traditional event of reburial of ancestors, "Famadihana," takes place during the cool season of the dry period (June to September).
• By avoiding the rainy season, there is a close relationship between climate and the wishes for the safety and success of the festival.

Weather and Social Life

Life Rhythm During the Rainy Season

• The rainy season causes roads to become muddy, greatly affecting transportation and logistics.
• Schools and markets also operate in accordance with the rhythms of the rainy season.

The Treatment of Weather in Oral Culture

• Words that describe changes in weather and the movements of wind, clouds, and stars are passed down in folktales, proverbs, and songs.
• The wisdom of weather observation is still shared among the elders and farmers in the community.

Meteorology and Natural View

Natural Beliefs and Climate

• Mountains, rivers, and forests are regarded as sacred in tradition, with weather perceived as the will of spirits.
• The belief in calming spirits through rituals remains strong during abnormal weather or disasters.

Concerns and Adaptation to Climate Change

• In recent years, climate change has led to delays in the rainy season and frequent droughts.
• There are initiatives underway in some areas that integrate traditional agriculture with modern technology for weather countermeasures.

Different Weather Awareness in Urban and Rural Areas

Utilization of Weather Information in Urban Areas

• In urban areas such as the capital Antananarivo, smartphone weather apps and forecasts from broadcasting stations are widely used.
• Due to its direct impact on transportation and business, improving the reliability of weather information is prioritized.

Empirical Observations in Rural Areas

• In rural areas, predictions based on natural observations (color of the sky, direction of the wind, behavior of birds, etc.) are still prevalent.
• A distinctive view of weather is observed, where science and tradition coexist.

Summary

The climate culture of Madagascar is supported by the history and wisdom that has lived alongside its diverse natural environment. Weather is deeply intertwined with people’s faith, actions, economy, and spiritual culture, and it is expected to show unique adaptation strategies in response to future climate change.