Global Weather Hazards Summary: May 23 - 29, 2014

Drought conditions likely in parts of Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and Tanzania

Africa Weather Hazards

1. Consistently low and infrequent seasonal precipitation across some bimodal rainfall areas of northern Tanzania, as well as western Kenya, northeastern Uganda, southeastern South Sudan, and the southern Rift Valley of Ethiopia have strengthened moisture deficits since late March. The poor rains have negatively impacted livestock, led to the replanting of crops, and caused reductions in crop yields. Continued poor rainfall in May is likely to adversely impact crops and pastoral conditions in the region.

2. Sporadic rainfall during the past several months has led to rainfall deficits and dryness over the Hirraan, Galgaduud, and Mudug Regions of southern and central Somalia and the Somali and southern Oromia Regions of Ethiopia. This has led to food/water shortages and livestock fatalities. Light to moderate rains should provide some relief during the next week, though dryness will remain.

3. Torrential coastal showers in coastal Kenya and in the Tanga, Pwani and Dar es Salaam Regions of Tanzania have caused flooding that has destroyed roads and infrastructure and has damaged crops. With heavy rain forecast for the next week, additional flooding is possible.