The first report focused on the weather phenomenon's effects in Latin America. Indonesia has been hit hard by the recent drought - the worst reported in 50 years. Southern Sumatra and Kalimantan, on the island of Borneo, Java and eastern parts of the country have suffered unseasonably dry conditions for several months. Although recent heavy rains have allowed some respite, the first monsoon rains may not come till November - they normally begin in September.
Crops most affected by the drought conditions are likely to be the staples, maize and rice.
Prevailing dry conditions have also exacerbated forest fires that are threatening agriculture and forest plantations and reducing water supplies. Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. An increase in food imports and a rise in prices of agricultural commodities may result next year in Indonesia if domestic production declines as predicted. Although national food stocks are reported to be sufficient at present, government agencies are making contingency plans to supply emergency food rations to vulnerable segments of the population should the food supply situation tighten. In Papua New Guinea, the government has declared a state of emergency, as concern over the food situation increases.