Heavy rains intensify flooding in low-lying areas

Heavy rainfall continued across the country in the second dekad of September increasing flooding and compromising crop performance in some areas. 

In Panyijiar County, Unity State, excessive flooding from Nile River overflow inundated low-lying areas. Floods have disrupted crop development, particularly in Nyal, and are expected to further reduce already below-average harvests. Field reports estimate that production in Nyal may be only 25 percent of normal. 

Rainfall eased somewhat in Upper Nile over the last dekad, although soils remain saturated in northern areas from last month’s heavy rains. Harvests of green maize in Maban have supplied local markets.  

Heavy rains caused flooding in Tonj North and Tonj South counties, Warrab State. Rising flood waters displaced households but did not have a major effect on crops as most harvesting (groundnuts and short-cycle sorghum) occurred in August. 

Rains remained erratic in Jonglei State. Rainfall deficits persisted in Pochalla and Pibor counties where extended dry spells have caused crops to wilt at critical vegetative and flowering stages. Crop failure in some areas will reduce seed availability for second-season planting. Favorable crop conditions and ongoing harvests were reported in most other areas of Jonglei over the last dekad except in low-lying areas and along river banks where floods continue to inundate fields. 

Flooding continued in Lakes State in September displacing livestock from cattle camps in Awerial, Rumbek East, North Cueibet, and greater Yirol counties. Livestock migration to agricultural areas in villages is likely to threaten crops and cause tension with farmers. Flooding has also prevented short-cycle sorghum harvesting in Awerial County.  

Moisture deficits persisted for the third consecutive week in Greater Kapoeta, Eastern Equatoria State. Poor rainfall performance over the course of the season is likely to affect harvests, even after successive replanting.

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