Attachments
Highlights
• Rainfall between 1 October and 10 December 2023 was well below average in the southern half of the region, affecting early season crop development. November through early December was particularly dry, which resulted in some October-planted crops permanently wilting.
• The start of the rainfall season was delayed by 3 to 4 weeks in central parts of the region, resulting in delays in planting and potential shortening of the crop growing window.
• Excessive rainfall was recorded in parts of Tanzania, resulting in flooding.
• Rainfall patterns to date are following typical El Niño patterns. El Niño often results in hotter and drier than average conditions in the south and central parts of the region, usually reducing crop yields, while northeastern areas usually receive above-average rainfall.
• Significant rainfall in early-December in central parts of the region, and short-term rainfall forecasts of ongoing rains will mark an effective start to the rainy season.
• Vegetation conditions, particularly in grazing areas, are below average in central and western areas. There have been reports of drought-related livestock deaths and poor body conditions.
• Countries need to implement contingency plans for likely scenarios, and mitigation strategies, focusing on drought-resistant crops and efficient water use, supported by coordinated efforts among governments and other stakeholders to address likely negative seasonal climate impacts