LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN: In Central America and the Caribbean, prospects are favourable for second season crops following abundant rains in September and October. However, increasing unemployment in the coffee sector and violent storms at the end of the hurricane season make recovery from the recent drought difficult. Tropical storm 'Michelle' caused localized floods in Central America and the Caribbean, while other hurricanes hit mainly Belize and Cuba. In south America, harvest prospects are favourable following increased plantings compared to last year.