The cyclone hit 5 states which are predominantly agricultural societies. Rural poor are the most hit.

Damage to annual crops is expected, in particular on rice, oil palm and rubber plantation.

The 5 states produce 65 percent of the countries rice, and have about 50 percent of all irrigated areas. There is risk that stored rice seeds kept by farmers - usually under poor storage facilities - might be affected by the cyclone.

Some rice crops under irrigation might be affected if not yet harvested.

Rubber plantations in 5 affected states cover some 20 percent of national total. However, most rubber trees are relatively young and might also be affected by the cyclone.

The 5 affected states are famous for livestock production - having roughly 50 percent of national poultry production and 40 percent of pig production. FAO also expects problems for small scale livestock holders to treat injured/sick animals or feed surviving animals.

The 5 states own 80 percent of the country's fish aquaculture ponds and 26 percent of the shrimp aquaculture ponds. Fish and shrimps might have escaped from the ponds if flooded by water.

FAO/WFP will carry out joint assessments of food needs; damage and needs assessment in the agricultural, livestock and fisheries sectors as well as looking at livelihoods and natural resource issues in the most affected areas.

UN clusters are leading the action, and the UN - including FAO - is examining the need for a flash appeal.

Together with the government, UN partners and donors, FAO is ready to undertake on the spot detailed damage assessment – and formulate measures to protect farmers from further losses and provided immediate support to recover rural livelihoods.