Spatial distribution patterns and hotspots of extreme agro-climatic resources in the Horro Guduru Wollega Zone, Northwestern Ethiopia

Extreme temperatures and rainfall influence crop yields, soil health, and natural ecosystems. This study examined the extent of extreme agro-climatic factors in Northwestern Ethiopia, with a focus on identifying vulnerability hotspots. Rainfall and temperature data from 1982 to 2022 were collected from eight meteorological stations of the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute, and missing values and outliers were corrected using imputation and Z-scores. ClimPact2 software extracted agro-climatic indicators, and trend analyses were performed using the Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope. Consecutive dry days (CDD) ranged from 27 in Fincha’a to 57 in Obora, with Obora showing an annual increase of 2.033 days. Consecutive wet days (CWD) varied from 12 in Obora to 138 in Fincha’a. A positive trend in the warmest maximum temperatures (TXx) and a negative trend in the cold night index (TN10P) were observed. The Amuru District recorded the highest vulnerability index at 61, with most districts ranging from 42 to 60. These variations may significantly affect agriculture and water management in the region, necessitating the adoption of heat-tolerant crops and improved irrigation practices to enhance climate resilience.