MALI:

Crops are developping generally satisfactorily reflecting widespread and regular rains in August except in the centre north. Following abundant rains in late July in the west and the south, precipitation decreased in early August but remained widespread, reaching northern locations. During the second dekad, rains remained generally regular and well distributed except in the centre north which registered low or no rainfall. However, rains resumed in these areas during the third dekad providing relief to stressed crops. Millet and sorghum are generally elongating. Souna millet is maturing. Maize is maturing or being harvested. Rainfed rice is elongating while irrigated rice is tillering in the "Office du riz" zone near Mopti. Pastures are adequate.

Grain eating birds are reported in the Niafunke area. In late July, small Desert Locust swarms were present near Gao and hoppers were reported in the same area on 18-22 August. Elsewhere during the first half of August, low numbers of adults were reported in several northern areas. Breeding is likely to be in progress in some parts of the Adrar des Iforas with hoppers appearing during September.

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

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