FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - INDONESIA* (3 September)

INDONESIA* (3 September)

Unseasonably heavy rains in main cereal producing areas following prolonged drought boosted irrigation supplies for second-season rice and maize crops. However, floods caused by excessive rains at the end of July affected East Kalimantan resulting in loss of life and property. Floods are also reported in parts of Sumatra.

Forecasts of more heavy rains and tidal waves associated with the La Niña weather phenomenon in most parts of the country are worrying, and may aggravate the already precarious food supply situation precipitated by last year’s prolonged drought and the financial and economic crisis. An FAO/WFP Mission is in the country to assess the outcome of the secondary season crops and review the overall food supply situation in the country.

WFP launched a US$ 90 million emergency food aid programme at the end of August for 5.3 million vulnerable people.

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