4 Nov 2015

Drought awareness needed in Solomons

8:39 am on 4 November 2015

Drought-affected communities in the east, west, and south of Solomon Islands are being urged to take steps to adapt to ongoing dry conditions.

The director of the disaster management office says teams are yet to be deployed to the worst hit areas to carry out a full assessment, but initial reports indicate severe water shortages and the beginnings of crop failure.

Loti Yates says the El Niño system is predicted to continue well into 2016 so his office is also working on a nation-wide awareness campaign to teach people to conserve water for the difficult months ahead.

"For that alone we will be needing support in as far as media awareness. So if our partners in country are able to do that we would be really appreciating their support. Awareness is key to ensuring people are prepared for possible severe impacts of the drought."

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