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 25 – August 31, 2011
Hurricane IRENE has brought heavy rains across the northern two-thirds of Hispaniola.
During the past seven days, the northern two-thirds of Hispaniola received heavy (> 50mm) rains as Hurricane IRENE moved to the north of the island during the past few days. In Haiti, copious (> 50mm) amount of rains were observed over the northern half of the country, with the heaviest rainfall observed in the Artibonite and Centre departments. The above-average rainfall that fell in the Nord Ouest and portions of the Ouest departments should help to replenish ground moisture in the regions. Light to moderate (< 20mm) rains were, however, observed in the southern Peninsula of Haiti during the past week. For the upcoming observation period, southerly winds that are associated with the northwestward movement of Hurricane IRENE, are expected to enhance moisture and bring heavy (> 50mm) rains across much of Haiti. The heaviest (> 75mm) rains are forecast across the Grand Anse, Ouest, and Sud Est departments during the next week. The continuation of heavy rains could cause flooding, landslides, and negatively impact crops in the already-saturated grounds of many local areas.
