NIGER:

Following mostly dry weather in early to mid June, substantial rains in late June and early July covered most of the agricultural zone. Plantings started in late May following first showers over most producing zones. However, the weather remained mostly dry during the first two dekads of June. Rains became widespread and above normal over the western and central producing areas but remained limited in the east during the third dekad of June. They started in the east in early July. Plantings and replantings are underway with satisfactory seed availability following 1998 record harvest.

Rodents are reported to be attacking recent sowings in Tahoua and Zinder departments. Grasshoppers have also been seen in Diffa and Tillabery departments but crop damage is negligible. Grain eating birds are also reported in Diffa department. Unconfirmed reports suggest that isolated Desert Locusts were present in eastern Aïr and Irhazer during the first dekad of June. Small scale breeding could occur once the seasonal rains commence in Aïr and Tamesna.
 

Satellite Images (Cold Cloud Duration for the last three dekads)

Legend

Page with graphics of the evolution of Cold Cloud Duration average values over various zones of the country and compared to 1989-1995 average values.