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The Joint Research Centre (JRC) is the European Commission's science and knowledge service which employs scientists to carry out research in order to provide independent scientific advice and support to EU policy.
The October edition of the JRC's Anomaly Hotspots of Agricultural Production (ASAP) assessment shows evidence of drought in western Yemen, which adds pressure to the already dire food security situation caused by conflict and food import blockage. Irrigation deficits and drought have also affected production in Iraq and in parts of Central Asia. In the dry corridor region in Central America, the second crop season is progressing well, whereas first-season production by small-scale farmers was affected by drought. In East, West and Central Africa, crop conditions are generally good, with the exception of flood- and conflict-hit areas in Nigeria and conflict areas in South Sudan.
Main findings of the October global overview:
* Special Focus: October 2018 - Water scarcity in Iraq and Pakistan and drought effects in Yemen
Several countries in the Middle East and South Asia are expecting a reduced production of summer crops (including cotton) due to irrigation water deficits and drought. The October 2018 Special Focus shows maps for key areas in Iraq and Pakistan where the low summer crop area and performance is particularly striking.
In Yemen, the effects of the prolonged conflict and port blockage on food security are worsened by drought. The main crop-producing areas in western Yemen had received only between one third and half of the average cumulative rainfall by mid-season. Food supply in Yemen largely depends on imports, but drought conditions add pressure to the ongoing food security crisis. Some high resolution evidence about drought in Yemen is shown in the October 2018 special focus.
The next assessment is scheduled for the end of November 2018.
Further information