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
January 19 – January 25, 2012
Seasonally light rainfall was observed across Hispaniola.
During the past week, light precipitation (< 10 mm) was observed across much of Hispaniola. The highest precipitation totals (5-15 mm) were recorded across north and northeastern portions of the Dominican Republic. Thirty-day rainfall deficits remain strong across much of Hispaniola with the largest deficits (50-100 mm) located along the northern coastlines of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The well below-average rainfall in December led to poor cropping conditions in northern Haiti and Dominican Republic.
However, a return of rains during the beginning of January in northern Hispaniola has allowed for crops in irrigated areas to grow well. Bean and sorghum crops located in areas that rely only on rain are not performing well, though. For the next week, models forecast light rainfall (< 10 mm) across Haiti and western Dominican Republic which should provide little relief to dry conditions.
Farther east, moderate rain (10-25 mm) is expected across much of eastern Dominican Republic.
