FEWS NET is a USAID-funded activity whose purpose is to provide objective information about food security conditions. Its views are not necessarily reflective of those of USAID or the U.S. Government. The FEWS NET weather hazards outlook process and products include participation by FEWS NET field and home offices, NOAA-CPC, USGS, USDA, NASA, and a number of other national and regional organizations in the countries concerned. Questions or comments about this product may be directed to Wassila.Thiaw@noaa.gov or 1-301-763-8000 x7566. Questions about the USAID FEWSNET activity may be directed to Gary Eilerts, USAID Program Manager for FEWSNET, 1-202- 219-0500 or geilerts@usaid.gov.
Climate Prediction Center’s Hispaniola Hazards Outlook For USAID / FEWS-NET
August 18 – August 24, 2011
Northern Haiti observed moderate to heavy rain after several weeks of drier weather.
During the past seven days, the northern half of Hispaniola received moderate to heavy rain (> 30 mm) while areas to the south observed lighter totals (5-30 mm). The heaviest precipitation (> 50 mm) was recorded across the Nord-Est and Artibonite departments of Haiti and northwestern Dominican Republic. The moderate to heavy rain that fell over northern Haiti has helped improve moisture conditions over northwest Haiti where dry conditions during past weeks have led to poor crop development.
Further south, generally light rains were recorded across southern areas of Haiti. The light rainfall across Port-Au-Prince and the Ouest department during the past several weeks has contributed to negative NDVI anomalies. However, recent moderate rains during the past several days have helped improve moisture conditions around Port-au-Prince. For the next week, an increase in tropical moisture is expected to bring moderate to heavy rain (> 30 mm) across much of Hispaniola including dry areas in Haiti. In addition, a potential increase in tropical activity at the end of the observation period could bring heavy rain and strong winds to Hispaniola.
