Saving lives on Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria in East Africa is the world’s largest tropical freshwater lake and provides a livelihood, directly and indirectly, to over 3.5 million people. Weather conditions on the lake can change suddenly with high winds and waves posing serious hazards to lake users. Severe storms occur over Lake Victoria at any time of year and historically, forecasting these extreme conditions was difficult. Local fishermen were unable to make informed decisions and prepare accordingly.