Severe drought conditions due to El Niņo in the southern areas of the country have resulted in a decline in food production. The 1998 first season paddy crop, the main food crop, is forecast at about 120 000 tonnes less than an earlier estimate of 170 000 tonnes. Sugar and other crops are also reported to be affected. The food situation is tight for approximately 500 families who are also suffering from the lack of drinkable water supply. Forest fires are reported in the hinterlands. Limited manpower and equipment, combined with the low water level of the rivers, make the extinguishing operations difficult. A state of emergency has been declared by the Government, which has initiated relief programmes for the affected families.