Global Weather Hazards Summary: March 2 - 8, 2017

Both large moisture surpluses and deficits continue to significantly impact different parts of Africa

Africa Weather Hazards

1. Since December, an increased locust numbers and breeding have been reported in western Mauritania, Western Sahara, and northeastern Sudan according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.

2. Below-average and erratic rainfall since December has resulted in strong moisture deficits, degraded ground conditions, and poor crop prospects across parts of northeastern Mozambique.

3. Many consecutive weeks of poor rainfall has strengthened moisture deficits, resulting in abnormal dryness, drought, and severe drought conditions in eastern and northern Madagascar. Severe impacts on cropping activities and water availability are likely. A recent uptick in rainfall has mitigated concerns for some.

4. Since late December, enhanced seasonal rainfall has resulted in large moisture surpluses and several floods. With wet conditions in place, risk remains high for additional floods throughout Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and southwestern Tanzania. Abnormally high river levels have been reported along the Limpopo, Save, Buzi, Pungue, and Ruaha Rufi due to heavy rains upstream and downstream 5. Inconsistent rainfall since late December has led to strengthening moisture deficits and deteriorating ground conditions across many parts of western Angola and northwestern Namibia.