The Department of Agriculture has warned farmers to prepare for a difficult 2026/27 summer season as El Niño conditions set in.
According to the South African Weather Service’s Seasonal Climate Watch dated 31 August 2026, El Niño will continue through the summer, bringing below-normal rainfall and high temperatures.
The department said winter rainfall areas have already experienced shortages, which could worsen as summer approaches.
In the agricultural sector, El Niño typically leads to dry conditions, heat stress, crop failure and livestock mortalities, especially where risk reduction measures are not in place. Low rainfall may also trigger water restrictions for irrigation farmers and increase pests and diseases.
While the 2025/26 season saw above-normal rainfall that improved dam levels and soil moisture in summer rainfall areas, farmers are now urged to conserve water and practise climate-smart agriculture.
Recommendations include:
- Using conservation agriculture implements to preserve soil moisture and prevent erosion
- Not expanding production unnecessarily and planting suitable, drought-tolerant cultivars listed in the National Varietal List
- Using water sparingly through water harvesting and drip irrigation, and irrigating in the morning or evening
- Keeping livestock numbers within the carrying capacity of the veld, practising rotational grazing and providing additional feed and water
- Regular scouting for pests and diseases, vet visits and vaccinations
The department said it will continue monitoring conditions and issuing monthly advisories and daily extreme weather warnings through SAWS.
Farmers are urged to comply with local water restrictions and follow early warning information for disaster risk mitigation.
