Average temperatures this spring far higher than the norm

Shortage of cereal crops due to drought and high temperatures

From the beginning of March to the end of May 2006 there were only 16 days which saw rain with a total of 46 litres, well below the average 125 litres/sq.m.

C.M.W..Maó

Alack of rain, combined with high temperatures, during this spring has had a negative effect on the island´s agricultural sector. This is the conclusion reached in a report produced by an Agricultural association in Maó which has compared the meteorological conditions (rainfall, temperatures and wind) experienced this year to those averaged over the last 56 years.

The weather plays a vital part in the island´s agricultural economy as the majority of crops are grown "dry" (i.e. without irrigation), especially cereals and fodder.

The last agricultural season started in August 2005 in a positive manner with a small amount of rain falling during the month. September saw a dramatic increase in rainfall (83mm compared to the average 61mm) and there was no shortage of rain during the remainder of the autumnal months nor the winter period. This was favourable for forage and spring-planted crops.

However, from March the amount of rainfall dropped dramatically and between the beginning of March and the end of May there were only 16 days when rain fell.

Temperatures have also had a negative effect on crop production: during the spring months this year the average temperature was far higher than usual and in July the average was 2.5 degrees above the norm.

Farmers can draw little consolation from the start of the new agricultural year 2006-2007, which has again seen a lack of rainfall and high temperatures.