Ongoing flooding to impact main harvests in some areas

Heavy, and well above-average rainfall continued across much of the country in late September/ early October, exacerbating flooding and compromising crop performance in some areas. 

Heavy rains in Rubkona County, Unity State since the end of September worsened flooding in the Bentiu Protection of Civilians (POC) area. Flooding in Panyijiar County also continued to destroy sorghum crops. Field reports suggest that nearly 40 percent of farmers in Nyal and Ganyiel have suffered crop losses from excessive flooding since mid-July.

Heavy rains displaced some households in low-lying areas of Twic East County, Jonglei State and cut off the road between Panyagor and Bor town. The main route between Juba and Bor also remains impassable due to heavy rainfall. 

Continued flooding in Akobo County, Jonglei in late September/ early October has affected trade flow with Ethiopia, particularly of livestock. Grazing areas near homesteads are also inundated, reducing livestock access to pasture.

Favorable rains continued in Renk County, Upper Nile State through early October. Reports suggest that crops are performing better this year compared to last year, particularly in mechanized farming areas, but below-average production is still expected due to an estimated 40 percent reduction in area planted. 

Short-cycle sorghum harvests have concluded In Maiwut and Longochuk in Upper Nile. In Nasir and Ulang, main harvests have not yet begun due to delays in planting related to insecurity in these counties. Heavy rains in the last dekad of September and first dekad of October caused mass displacement and inundated long-cycle sorghum crops which are at maturity stage.

GFS forecasts indicate continued moderate to heavy rains over South Sudan in the coming week.