The 2018/2019 season was the driest since at least 1981 in central and western parts of the region. The drought resulted in crop failure, reduced forage, and poor water availability.
A delayed and erratic onset of rains, mid-season dry spells, and early cessation of rains in several parts of the region have contributed to poor crop production expectations in many areas.
Tropical Cyclone Idai brought strong winds and heavy rains to Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, resulting in fatalities and severe damage, most significantly in Mozambique.
Rainfall performance in a few north-eastern areas has resulted in good harvest prospects there.
National crop production assessments are currently underway, and will help to quantify the impacts of the 2018/2019 seasonal performance on food availability.
