Drought Situation & EW Phase Classification
Biophysical Indicators
The County received normal to below normal rainfall in the MarchApril-May rainy season which was fairly distributed in temporal and spatial distribution. Most of the rains were received in April.
Pasture and browse conditions improved in about 65% of the county while the rest was reported and observed to be deteriorating.
Vegetation condition improved considerably to a normal condition, a situation also indicated by the increased 3-month VCI value of 46.4.
No biophysical indicator is fluctuating outside normal.
The current state of water is at level 4-6 which is normal at this time of the year.
Water search distances for households and livestock were reported to be low as the commodity was accessed from water pans, shallow well, natural holes and drainage system along the major roads.
Socio-economic Indicators (Impact Indicators)
The current drought risks are low to medium given the normal to below normal MAM rainfall performance which has positively impacted on the socio-economic and environmental conditions of the County.
There were no unusual migrations of livestock. The current livestock body condition is ranging from good to fair with initial signs of improvement evident in all species.
A livestock market price was on a positive trend during the month.
However the drought risk could increase in the coming months as the expected long dry spell is likely to begin in the month of July until the Short Rains which is expected in October to December.
In view of the possible alarm situation during the coming long dry spell it is recommended to upscale our preparedness and intervention activities so as to mitigate the effect of the drought.