Papua New Guinea faces severe food shortages as El Niño brings frost and drought
Summary
Papua New Guinea is facing serious food shortages because of the El Niño weather pattern, which has caused frost and drought that damaged crops and water supplies. About 3 million people, especially in the Highlands, may be affected as farms struggle to produce enough food and clean water becomes scarce.Key Facts
- El Niño caused frost and long dry spells in Papua New Guinea’s Highlands, damaging food gardens.
- Oxfam PNG says the country is the worst affected in the Pacific by El Niño’s effects, including frost, drought, and pests.
- Around 3 million people may be affected nationwide, with 1.9 million in the Highlands region at risk.
- Some farming communities have food supplies lasting only two to three months.
- Frost damage includes large losses to key crops like potatoes.
- Rivers and creeks are drying up, reducing access to clean water.
- Schools have reduced hours due to heat and water shortages.
- The government is urging local areas to prepare for an extended dry season without causing alarm.
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