Floods: The climate of Yemen is inherently variable both spatially and temporally; this exerts significant implications for the agriculture sector and overall food security. Examining indicators of the spatial- temporal agrometeorological hazards across Yemen, results show that while much of June was character- ized by heavy rains and parts of the country are still reeling from the devastating floods that pushed dozens of people into poverty, the forecasts for July still show heavy rainfall for Dhamar, Al Dhale’e, Ibb, Lahj, and Taiz (Fig. 1). Parts of Sana’a may also experience relatively heavy rainfall. About 1500 people are at risk of being affected by moderate floods in these areas. Vigilance is recommended. Elsewhere, the worst is over as early July forecasts favour a possible reduction in floods.
High Temperature: 80 percent higher than usual temperatures are expected to continue affecting much of the country (Fig. 2). Scorching heat waves are expected to especially affect coastal areas such as Aden where they will likely be accompanied by high humidity because of maritime influences. Cooling off, in the shade and using cold water, from the blistering heat that is expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius and reach 45 degrees Celsius in Hadramaut, is strongly advised. Forecasts further reveal that the approaching heatwave may cause livestock discomfort, severe dehydration, and even death. Reducing the number of hours livestock are exposed to the sun is encouraged.
Dust: With reduced rainfall activities, increased intensity and severity of dusty conditions are forecasted until mid-July (Fig. 3). To limit the extent of dusty conditions, the application of water in poultry houses and areas surrounding human habitation is recommended. Further, vulnerable people such as children and the elderly are encouraged to mask up, especially across areas such as Hadramuat and Al Maharah. Pests: Isolated immature and mature solitarious adult Desert Locusts (DL) were reported in the interior of Yemen near Al Hazm but no DL was seen elsewhere in the past weeks1. The forecast points toward possible solitarious breeding in parts of Marib, Ataq, and extending to Hadramaut (Fig. 4). Fall Armyworms are also likely to increase in number as rainfall activities persist across much of western Yemen. Vigilance is encour- aged.