Garissa County drought early warning bulletin for May 2017

Biophysical Indicators
- The average vegetation condition index for the county increased from 9.2 to 15.89 and fall in the severe vegetation deficit category.
- The current average vegetation condition index is below the normal range of >35.
- It is only Township Sub county that is in moderate vegetation deficit category of 31.5.
- All other sub counties are in severe vegetation deficit category. Lagdera being the lowest with 11.1.
- Water sources currently in use are boreholes, River Tana, spring, water trucking and few water pans that impounded water.

Socio Economic Indicators (Impact Indicators)
- 66.7% of the livestock population were in poor body condition, with worst affected being the grazers (sheep and cattle).
- Milk production recorded was at 15 litres which indicate below the normal of 36 litres.
- There was no livestock out migration reported. But there were livestock migration within the county.
- The terms of trade recorded at 39kgs of maize per sale of goat.
- The return distance to water sources for livestock decreased from 24km to 15km.
- Children under five years at risk of malnutrition increased from 30.5% to 34.5. The mid at risk levels increased from 27.7% from 33.6%, the moderately malnourished reduced 3.7% to 1.0%. There were no severely malnourished children.