El Salvador: Drought

A weak El Niño phenomenon has developed since February affecting Central America, in particular what is known as the Dry Corridor. Eastern regions of El Salvador are now undergoing at least 7 days without rains since 13 June, which was the fourth driest months since 1971. The drought conditions are impacting agriculture and water sources, leading to higher levels of food insecurity and more pressing WASH needs. Erratic and below average rainfall will likely result in a poor Primera harvest in August, pushing more vulnerable households to continue adopting negative coping strategies, prolonging the period of food expenditure and further depletion of assets.  Some 300,000 people are already expected to be food insecure in July, with Usulután and Morazán being most affected, followed by La Union and San Miguel. Climatic projections estimate that the dry period will continue until the end of July and beginning of August. 

See report on dry spell in northern Nicaragua