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
September 20 – September 26, 2012
Heavy rains fell across central Hispaniola as drier conditions were observed along the coast.
During the past seven days, rainfall across central portions of Hispaniola increased compared to rains during the past several weeks. Heavy rains (>40mm) were recorded across the Centre and northern Ouest departments of Haiti and into western Dominican Republic. Adequate rainfall across central Hispaniola has led to average to above-average vegetative conditions in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Thirty-day rainfall amounts are close to average in central Hispaniola as well. In contrast, lighter rain (<15mm) was observed along the coast. While the southern coastline of Haiti observed heavy rains in August associated with Tropical Storm Isaac, the northern coastline has been drier. Moderate thirty-day rainfall deficits (20-100mm) have led to below- average vegetative conditions and the delaying of planting in the Nord-Ouest, Nord and Nord-Est departments of Haiti. Poor ground conditions extend into northwest Dominican Republic. For the next week, locally heavy rains (>40mm) are forecast across central and southern Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Drier conditions (<20mm) are expected across the northern coastline of Hispaniola likely maintaining or increasing rainfall deficits.
