Description of the disaster
Papua New Guinea has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell since May 2015 which is the consequence of changing climatic conditions caused by El Nino. The country has experienced reduced rainfall in all regions and the seasonal rains expected in November are now not anticipated until the first half of 2016. The drought situation and its ongoing impact remains largely unchanged despite some rain and distribution of food by the Government of PNG.
Vegetation Stress Index Aerial Maps reflect the situation, showing that vegetation across north east part of PNG is under stress most notably in the Highlands, in Chimbu Province, Western, Southern and Eastern Highlands as well as Morobe and East New Britain. The maps indicate that vegetation in lower altitude is under more stress compared to higher altitudes.
The majority of a portion of staple food crops (sweet potato and potato gardens), plants and trees are destroyed and creeks and rivers are also drying up in the agricultural hub of the Tambul Nembilyer district of Western Highlands Province.
Some provincial markets have closed down, reduced quantity of produce, whilst prices increased - as reported in the affected areas of Tambul Nembilyer (Western Highlands) and Andareas (Southern Highlands). There has been a spike in the price of produce in the market in Mt Hagen, combined with a decrease in quantity and quality of produce available. The main supply areas include most affected regions in Western Highlands, Tambul Nembilyer and Highlands Central as well as Jiwaka.
Produce is continuing to be exported to main centers, Port Moresby and Lae, where the demand and the market price is significantly higher than in Mt Hagen.
It has been reported by the Western Highlands branch that some streams and rivers that were used as primary water sources have dried up. Populations in affected areas are resorting to secondary water sources (traditionally used for washing and bathing) as drinking water and in food preparation. This increases the risk of diarrhoea and typhoid already prevalent in PNG. However, the Ministry of Health has not confirmed increased cases or any outbreak to date.
Affected populations are coping using traditional mechanisms, including sharing of resources within tribes.