China is currently experiencing extreme weather conditions, with severe drought and record temperatures scorching the north, while heavy rains inundate the south. This has raised concerns about food security in the world’s second-largest economy, as areas that produce a significant amount of rice and wheat have been badly affected. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued warnings about the adverse impact of drought and heat on the planting season in several northern and central provinces, with temperatures expected to exceed 35 Celsius in the coming days. An emergency alert has already been issued for at least seven provinces, including major agricultural regions like Henan and Shandong.
In Henan, China’s top wheat-producing region, rainfall in May was significantly lower than the yearly average, impacting the summer sowing season. The country is also experiencing a major heat wave, with the China Meteorological Administration reporting record-breaking high temperatures in June. China had its hottest spring on record this year, with national average temperatures reaching the highest levels since records began in 1961. Last year was also the hottest year on record for the country, indicating a worrying trend of increasing temperatures.
Meanwhile, southern parts of China, which are the top rice-growing regions, have been grappling with weeks of heavy rainfall. The Ministry of Agriculture has noted a significant increase in rainfall in these areas, with some regions experiencing a rise of up to 80%. This has led to recommendations on reducing damage to growing “early rice” saplings, which are planted in March and harvested in June. The China Meteorological Administration has reported heavy rainfall in regions like Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangxi, and Guizhou, which are major manufacturing and industrial centers. The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters has issued an emergency response to address the flooding in the south and drought in the north, warning of a high risk of flash floods and geologic hazards.
The extreme weather conditions in China appear to be related to a seasonal monsoon pattern that can result in intense showers over short periods. The country is facing the challenge of balancing the impacts of drought in the north with the heavy rainfall in the south, both of which are crucial for agricultural production. The disruptions caused by these weather events could have a significant impact on food security in China, as well as global markets, given the country’s status as a major producer of rice and wheat. The government will need to implement measures to mitigate the effects of the weather on agriculture and ensure a stable food supply for the population.
