BURKINA FASO:
Crops have been stressed due to below normal rains in early and mid-July.
Following generally adequate rains in late May or June, precipitation
was below normal and badly distributed during the first two dekads of July
except in the north. Rains increased significantly during the last dekad
over the entire country. Following these reduced rains in July, cumulative
rainfall which was above average in May and June due to an early start
of the rainy season, became equal or slightly below average as of late
July. With the improving rains in late July, millet and sorghum crops have
recovered and are developing satisfactorily. Precipitation remained widespread
in early August. In the southern half of the country, crops are generally
in the vegetation stage. Plantings and replantings are completed countrywide.
Pastures are regenerating quickly in the north. Water reserves are well
replenished.
Grasshoppers infestations have been reported on 1 500 hectares, including
1 320 hectares of planted areas. Treatments are underway. Caterpillars
attacks have also been reported on 4 350 hectares. .
