Examining climate trends and extremes in Janamora District Ethiopia from 1982 to 2024

Climate change poses significant challenges to environmental systems and rural livelihoods, particularly in data-scarce regions. This study examined long-term trends and extremes in temperature, precipitation, and drought in Janamora District, Ethiopia, during 1982–2024 using a concurrent mixed-methods approach. Quantitative climate data from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) POWER database were analyzed using RClimDex, the Mann–Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, and the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), while qualitative data from Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were analyzed thematically. The results showed significant increases in mean maximum temperature (0.027 °C/year, p = 0.023), mean minimum temperature (0.017 °C/year, p = 0.001), and the frequency of warm nights (0.231% points/year, p = 0.001), alongside significant decreases in the frequencies of cold nights and cold days. Annual total precipitation showed a non-significant decreasing trend (− 4.297 mm/year, p = 0.331), whereas consecutive wet days decreased significantly (− 0.653 days/year, p = 0.034) and maximum one-day precipitation increased significantly (0.966 mm/year, p = 0.004), indicating increasing precipitation variability. SPI analysis identified eight drought years, with a cumulative drought magnitude of − 12.12 and an average drought intensity of − 1.52. Qualitative findings were consistent with the quantitative results, with participants reporting increasing temperatures, declining rainfall reliability, delayed rainfall onset, early cessation of the rainy season, and more frequent droughts. By integrating climate trend analysis with community perceptions, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of climate variability and its local dimensions. The findings highlight the need to strengthen climate-smart agriculture, water resource management, and drought adaptation strategies to enhance resilience in climate-vulnerable regions.