Consequences of the drought: Concern about the harvest: Drought and heat hit Europe's farmers

Extreme heat and drought are causing concern among European farmers, with significant implications for harvests and farm operations. In Germany, the German Farmers' Association predicts a below-average grain harvest, driven by low market prices and rising costs. Ruminant farmers worry about reduced grass growth and dwindling feed supplies.

France and Spain are expected to face substantial crop failures, particularly in wheat production. Rising prices for Mediterranean olive oil could lead to empty vegetable shelves in supermarkets. Scientists predict that drought in Europe will intensify.

In Germany, the 2023 grain harvest is anticipated to be below average, with Stefanie Sabet, General Secretary of the German Farmers' Association, confirming the news. Market prices remain low, while expenses for transportation, fertilizers, and feed have increased, straining farm liquidity. The impact of yield disparities across different locations is significant. For instance, Germany expects a third less sugar production than the previous year due to persistent heat.

Heat and drought are also affecting other European countries. In Spain, the extraordinary heat and dryness of this summer are set to significantly burden the agricultural sector. The Spanish agricultural cooperatives have sharply revised their grain harvest projections, now estimating 18.6 million tons – roughly two million tons less than expected in May and 30% below the record-breaking 27 million tons harvested the previous year.

Olive groves, vineyards, fruit plantations, as well as maize and other summer crops, are suffering from water scarcity. Olive oil producers are already warning of smaller harvests and price rises should the drought persist into autumn.

In France, the agriculture sector anticipates significant crop failures due to multiple heatwaves and severe drought. The French vegetable growers' association, Légumes de France, warns of potential losses ranging from 50% in vegetables and dozens of millions of euros. Despite irrigation efforts, some crops have withered on the fields.

The situation could lead to shortages in local supermarkets. Strong losses are also predicted in other agricultural sectors. French Agriculture Minister Annie Gallois announced an emergency plan to support affected farmers. The country just experienced its hottest July since records began in 1900, with temperatures in many regions exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall was 70% below average in July. EU-wide, the European Commission is closely monitoring the effects of the ongoing heatwave on agricultural operations. Assistance is being considered for those who have suffered significant losses. Data from the Joint Research Centre shows a decrease in yield estimates for winter crops in the EU by one to four percent.

Overall, grain production is expected to fall about one percent below the five-year average. Scientists warn that the hot and dry conditions in Western Europe are likely to continue, increasing the likelihood of further yield losses.