HIGHLIGHTS
• Precipitation Trends: In May 2025, Yemen experienced widespread dry conditions and high temperatures, with localized rainfall primarily in the southern uplands, notably in Ibb. Most eastern and coastal areas remained dry throughout the month.
• Rainfall Anomalies: The country generally experienced rainfall deficits of -10% to -20%, with only isolated areas in northern Hajjah, Socotra, and Al Maharah showing slight positive anomalies.
• Temperature Patterns: Elevated and above-average temperatures persisted, with temperatures exceeding 42°C in eastern and coastal areas. These conditions heightened evapotranspiration, reduced soil moisture, and stressed crops even in the typically cooler highland zones.
• Vegetation Performance: In May 2025, vegetation conditions were broadly poor across Yemen due to drought and heat stress. Widespread crop stress was observed in key agro-ecological zones, with early signs of water stress in areas like Amran, Dhamar, and southern Al Hudaydah.
• Impacts on Agricultural Livelihoods and Food Security: The month saw delayed sorghum planting, increased water and rangeland stress, and growing threats to food security, driven by below-average rainfall, persistently high temperatures, and rising input costs.