Haiti: Droughts

Droughts are by definition an extended period of unusually low precipitation that produce a temporary shortage of water for people, other animals, and vegetation. Droughts threaten people with malnutrition or death if it causes their crops to fail. Although they normally are reason for widespread famine, the worldwide food distribution system is able to prevent this from occurring. The problem with droughts is that they normally overstay their welcome. The Caribbean Drought occurred from early 2015 to late 2017 and affected 15 countries. In 2015, the spring season of cultivation which is responsible for 60% of Haitian natural production, recorded 80% losses in what is supposed to be the most productive of Haiti's three agricultural seasons. Cattle reportedly died in large numbers as well, straining food supply further. The duration of the drought threatened the situation of 3.8 million food-insecure people. In mid 2016, only 30% of the allocated funds from humanitarian support was received, and no real improvement was reported until late 2016. That is until Hurricane Mathew struck a blow to the country in distress, and further increased the levels of food insecurity. This caused the need emergency food assistance to remain high in the country until late 2017.


Sources:
Drought stretches into its third year - ThinkProgress

Drought and Climate Change in Haiti - CWS

Caribbean Drought - Reliefweb