Rainy Season in Tanzania

Many people don't realize this, but Tanzania does not have the same seasons as many other countries because it is located so close to the equator. Instead of four different seasons each year that are marked by often significant changes in temperature, we have two seasons: dry and rainy. Therefore, while America and Europe are preparing for autumn and winter and Australia is gearing up for spring and summer, we in Tanzania are preparing for our second rainy season of the year.

Because many roads are dirt roads that wash out quickly with heavy rains making them impassable, our roads and home visits become very unpredictable during rainy season. Last week, we drove down a very nice dirt road. Five days later, after several days of heavy rain, the road had been washed out in three places, with stones creating makeshift bridges to help pass over the areas that were underwater. A large truck had slipped off of the stones in one place and tipped over on its side, so these areas must always be passed very carefully. The other risk during rainy season is that roads will become too muddy to pass. On multiple occasions, we have had to use tree branches to create traction for our tires to move through deep mud.

So while you all are getting out your fall or spring decorations and enjoying more pleasant temperatures, think about us as we are sloshing through rain and mud to reach our families!