Hello. Dry Season? Are You There?

According to Wikipedia, “Uganda's climate is tropical. This means it is generally rainy (particularly during the months of March to May, September to November), while the remaining months (December to February, June to August) comprise Uganda's two dry seasons.”  Now I know that this is not the most reliable source but come on… What college graduate hasn’t at some point snuck a Wikipedia fact into their final essay?!

When researching Uganda’s climate, I knew I’d be in for a treat.  This country sits on the Equator, which equates to an endless summer.  Or so I thought.  I know that weather patterns are changing all around the world and whether or not you want to admit it; global warming is definitely having an impact.

Living in the southwest region is vastly different than the other regions of the country.  We get significantly more cool temperatures, rain and thunderstorms than those living in the east or north.  We can thank the plenty of lakes that are located here along with the rolling hills and mountains that divide the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.  But I have patiently been waiting since December for the sun to come out and dry out the muddy path that leads me to the hospital from the road.  I have been practicing my anti-rain dance and it obviously needs some adjustments.  Now this isn’t saying that the sun doesn’t come out for a couple hours here and there or even for a couple days at a time.  I guess I was simply under the impression that when the dry season comes, you’ll know it.  It will be evident by the bone-dry rainwater collection containers, dust, and sweat.  I am definitely not complaining that this hasn’t happened, as I love me some water to drink, bathe, and do dishes.  I have learned that the sweat never goes away.

Although when the breeze comes whistling through the plantain fields I am reminded of home; of that 4-0’clock wind coming in from the bay.

Oh but do not let the high clouds fool you.  A tan can still be achieved.