The Zambia Meteorological Department (ZMD) says the dry spell that has hit parts of Zambia is a result of Tropical Cyclone Ava that was sweeping across Madagascar.

This is as farmers fretted about the dry and hot conditions, concentrated in Lusaka, Southern, Western and Central Province, from 31 December 31 2017 to 10 January 2018.

The southern half of the country had recorded less rainfall compared to the same period last season. Lusaka reported no rain at all, while other parts had poor rainfall distribution.

“From January 10 to 20, the tropical cyclone Ava would move further south-eastwards, increasing chance of rainfall over Zambia,” said Edson Nkonde, ZMD Acting Director.

Nkonde advised farmers to take advantage of the forecast rains to apply fertiliser and replant.