Bougainville prepares for worsening El Nino

5:03 pm on 9 September 2015

Bougainville's disaster coordinator says the autonomous Papua New Guinea region is preparing for the worst as a severe El Nino strengthens its grip.

Franklin Lacey says food gardens have been destroyed and water levels are low.

He says while there has been some rainfall, it will not be enough to sustain the region through the peak of the drought expected from October to January.

"For the last two days, it has been raining. There is enough water, but I don't think this will be enough to take us through the peak period. If we don't have another couple of days of rain, then surely we will have a situation again on our hands."

Franklin Lacey says officials from the national government arrived in Bougainville today and will begin drought assessments tomorrow.

He says he hopes the visit results in more funding to assist with relief efforts.

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