Review of seasonal forecasting in South Africa: producer to end-user

Reliable seasonal forecasting of climate, particularly for the rainy season for South Africa, has the potential to be of great benefit to users. Foreknowledge of temperature and rainfall conditions can assist planning, management and mitigation decisions for users from many sectors of the economy. Pre-requisites of a useful seasonal forecast, however, would include ease of interpreta- tion, acceptable accuracy as well as efficient dissemination. This paper describes the process of the development, dissemination and use of seasonal climate forecasts in South Africa. We critically analyse the process and suggest proposals for further research and development. Also addressed are the needs of users, maximisation of potential forecast benefits and some proposals for more efficient distribution.