Garissa County drought early warning bulletin for February 2017

Drought Situation & EW Phase Classification

Biophysical Indicators

The average vegetation condition index for the county decreased from16.83 to 16.2 and remains within the severe vegetation deficit category.

The current average is below the normal range of >35

The sub counties of Fafi and township are in moderate vegetation deficit category.

Dadaab sub county is in extreme vegetation condition category.

Water sources currently in use are boreholes, River Tana and spring, and water trucking.

Socio Economic Indicators (Impact Indicators)

 100% of the livestock population remain in poor body condition, with worst affected being the grazers (sheep and cattle).

Milk production recorded was at 9.3 litres and continue to decrease and remains below the normal of 36 litres.

There was no livestock migration reported.

The terms of trade recorded remained stable at 27kgs of maize per sale of goat.

The return distance to water sources increased to 29km.

The at risk to malnutrition for children under five increased from 25.7%. The mid at risk levels increased from 19.5%to 21.5% , the moderately malnourished increased from 1.52%to 2.99% and the severely malnourished category increased to 1%