Drought Conditions in South Cotabato Impact Agriculture and Water Supply

janimonow

April 1

South Cotabato is grappling with severe dry weather conditions, leading to the drying up of canals and irrigation reservoirs in areas like Santo Niño. The adverse effects of the hot weather are palpable across various sectors, including agriculture and livestock, highlighting the broader impact of climate phenomena like El Niño.

Key Impacts and Observations

In Barangay Manuel Roxas, essential water sources such as canals and fishponds have completely dried up.
Agricultural activities are severely hampered, with visible cracks in dry soil and cornfields suffering from the heat.
The Allah River, a critical water source for irrigation in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, has seen reduced water levels.

Wider Regional Effects

The El Niño phenomenon, causing below-normal rainfall and higher temperatures, is taking a toll on vulnerable agricultural areas, with significant financial losses reported.
Livestock and poultry are also facing threats due to the extreme heat, with instances of mass deaths in General Santos City and water supply issues in Zamboanga City affecting duck farms.

Government and Community Response

Authorities and local communities are making efforts to mitigate the impact, resorting to alternative water sources like deep wells to support agricultural and livestock needs.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has quantified the damage to agriculture, while PAGASA warns of intensifying heat index levels in the coming month.

This situation in South Cotabato exemplifies the broader challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon, underscoring the need for preparedness and adaptive measures to address the environmental and economic consequences of prolonged dry weather conditions.