The National Weather Service has issued a strong warning urging people to stock up on food and water due to the severe drought that is expected to have devastating consequences. The impacts of this drought are projected to affect various regions and vital resources in Papua New Guinea.
In the Highlands, frost will adversely affect tube crops, particularly sweet potatoes. The vegetation in this region will also be hit by the frost, further exacerbating the food scarcity issue. Additionally, rivers and other water sources in the mainland and coastal areas will dry up, compounding the water scarcity problem.
According to Jimmy Gomoga, the director of the Weather Service, these hydrological droughts will severely impact the essential needs for life. He emphasized, Water sources will dry up due to low precipitation and increased temperatures, and lack of rainfall will eventually cause crops to wither and die, affecting agriculture.
Gomoga stressed the need for immediate action, stating that people must prepare for a prolonged severe drought that will extend until 2025. One possible solution he suggested is for individuals to locate and utilize springs as a reliable water source. He also advised storing food to ensure availability during this crisis. Although the impacts may not be immediately apparent during the current wet season, they will become more widespread in the future.
The Weather Service director highlighted that irrigation cannot be relied upon as a solution, particularly in the Highlands Region. Moreover, lowland areas will face the challenge of high salinity in water sources, especially in rivers such as the Fly River. Gomoga suggested that provincial governments should initiate projects to support their respective communities during this protracted period of drought.
It is crucial for the public to heed this warning and take the necessary steps to prepare for the impending drought. Safeguarding food and water supplies will be vital to ensure the well-being and survival of individuals and communities in Papua New Guinea.
In conclusion, the National Weather Service’s warning regarding the severe drought necessitates immediate action. Tubers crops, vegetation, and water sources will be severely affected, leading to a scarcity of food and water. The advice given by Jimmy Gomoga, director of the Weather Service, emphasizes the importance of preparing for the long-lasting drought and underscores the need to find alternative water sources and store food supplies. The broader community and provincial governments must actively respond to address the challenges posed by this impending crisis.
