Heat, Drought Strain European Crops, Fodder Supplies

(MENAFN) Extended periods of extreme heat and insufficient rainfall are putting increasing pressure on agricultural production across western and central Europe, affecting both summer crops and supplies of animal feed, according to the European Commission.

The most serious effects are being recorded in France, southern Germany, northern and central Italy, Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary and western Romania, based on the latest agricultural monitoring assessment.

Farmers in several regions are facing additional difficulties because high temperatures and inadequate rainfall are weakening crops and reducing available fodder. In some areas, limited access to irrigation water is making the situation even more challenging.

Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Slovenia and Croatia are also seeing lower expectations for summer crop yields as hot and dry weather continues. Maize is among the crops facing particularly significant pressure.

The prolonged lack of rain and persistent heat are also reducing pasture availability and limiting the growth of vegetation used for animal feed. This is increasing concerns about fodder supplies across broad areas of western and central Europe.

The European Commission’s monthly MARS agricultural bulletin tracks crop and weather conditions across the continent. Its findings help European authorities evaluate the challenges facing farmers and identify areas experiencing significant agricultural stress.

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