Home / Weather News /

Worst drought in decades: Catastrophic famine in East Africa

03:00 PM
July 16, 2022

Millions are hungry
Catastrophic famine hits East Africa

People carrying wheat sacks at a food distribution site in the western Tigray region of EthiopiaPeople carrying wheat sacks at a food distribution site in the western Tigray region of Ethiopia - © picture alliance

Several countries in East Africa are facing severe famine following one of the worst droughts in decades.

Following a very poor start to the rainy season, with below-average rains from March to May, and the fifth consecutive season without adequate rain, conditions are life-threatening.

More than 18 million people are currently suffering across Somalia, Kenya, and Ethiopia, to name a few, and are in desperate need of food aid and support in order to survive. In Somalia, they are experiencing the worst drought in 40 years.

Food security in Somalia is currently only 20% funded, with 230,000 Somalis already living in famine conditions.

A nutrition clinic there has reported a 265 percent rise in the number of severely malnourished children under the age of five.

The crisis in Ukraine, combined with the economic impact of the pandemic, are responsible for driving the cost of food, but climate change is creating widespread, worsening conditions too.

The climate used to be predictable for those living in the East Africa, but with rain continuing to fail and water essential for agricultural production and health, the people are in crisis.

James West
More on the topic
Saturday, April 19, 2025

Your weather - Your shots

Sunrise views and misty mornings
Sleeping cat
Sunday, April 20, 2025

Seasonal tiredness

What causes spring fatigue?
High pressure and heat
Monday, June 9, 2025

Why & how does it work?

High pressure & extreme heat
All weather news
This might also interest you
Drink plenty of water
Monday, June 16, 2025

Top & silent killer

9 tips to stay safe from the heat
Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Flash flood risk, too

Central Plains' destructive 100 mph gusts
Monday, June 16, 2025

Spotted in Texas

What is a haboob?
All articles
Weather & Radar

www.weatherandradar.com

instagramfacebookthreadsContact uslinkList
Privacy policy | Legal info