FAO warns of the effects of low temperatures on agricultural crops in Yemen

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations warned, on Sunday, of the effects of the expected drop in temperature in the coming hours in Yemen, on agricultural crop production, especially in the northern regions and highlands.

A frost wave hit a number of Yemeni governorates, especially the northern ones, during the past few days, which led to damage to a number of agricultural crops, including potatoes, wheat and barley.

The FAO said in its early warning and agricultural meteorology bulletin that, "Starting from the early hours of November 24, highlands are expected to witness low temperatures during the day, ranging between 18-24 degrees Celsius, and dropping by 6 to 10 degrees at night, especially in the north and central highlands (Amran, Sana'a, Dhamar, northern Ibb)."

She added, "Low temperatures can inhibit crop production by slowing down physiological processes such as photosynthesis. Crops such as wheat, barley and vegetables, at high altitudes, are particularly vulnerable to cold stress during establishment and early growth stages."

The bulletin expected a decrease in rainfall in the remainder of November, as the cumulative total will not exceed 100 mm in specific areas of the central highlands, specifically in Ibb, Dhamar, Hajjah and Raymah. In addition, it is expected that the eastern plateau areas, especially Hadhramaut, Shabwa, Al Mahrah and Socotra Island, will receive rainfall approaching 10 mm by the end of this month.

She warned of the possibility of increased drought risks in the coming weeks, posing major threats to agricultural livelihoods and food security.

Yesterday, Saturday, the National Center of Meteorology predicted rain of varying intensity during the coming hours, warning at the same time of an expected drop in temperature in the northern regions and mountainous highlands.