FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 06/99 - CUBA (22 June)
Unusually dry weather continues to affect the country. Despite the beginning of rains, soil moisture levels remain low, affecting the development of cereal and minor foodcrops. Areas most affected include Camaguey in the eastern province and the extreme eastern provinces of Las Tunas, Granma and Guantanamo, earlier affected by El Niņo induced drought. Minor foodcrops such as roots and vegetables are reported to be seriously affected, as well as pasture. Serious water shortages are also reported around the capital of Havana and the Isla de la Juventud. Harvesting of the important sugar crop is complete and output is estimated at about 3.7 million tonnes compared to 3.2 million tonnes last year.