Drought
The Sierra Nevada snowpack has fallen to 59% of its historical average after weeks of sunny weather following Christmas storms. Experts note that full reservoirs and the remaining winter months mitigate concerns. Ski resorts continue to operate smoothly with artificial snow support.
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The Mossel Bay Municipality in the Western Cape has assured residents of a full year's water supply, even as forecasts predict below-average rainfall this year. This comes amid ongoing drought conditions affecting the Garden Route and Little Karoo regions. The assurance is based on current average daily consumption levels.
A maize farmer in Bloemfontein has raised concerns that recent early rains could signal a mid-summer drought, potentially harming maize crops. Laurens Schlebusch noted that while the rains benefit livestock grazing, they are not ideal for planting maize at this time.
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The Amhara region's agriculture bureau states that work is underway to salvage the teff crop affected by production shortages due to drought. Around 900,000 hectares of land have been planted with teff, and necessary technical support and assistance are being provided. Harvesting has begun prematurely to mitigate losses.