Current Desert Locust Outbreak Status in Eritrea and Surrounding Regions
Eritrea reports a small locust outbreak amidst ongoing issues in Niger and Sudan. Significant control operations increased in December, addressing locust groups and bands in several regions. January forecasts suggest continued second-generation breeding across multiple locations with necessary control measures in place.
On January 6, 2025, reports outlined a continuing locust outbreak in Eritrea, with additional outbreaks in Niger and Sudan. There are notable formations of locust groups and swarms in Sudan while Eritrea reports increased bands and groups of hoppers and adults. Scattered locusts are impacting coastal areas including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, along with isolated populations in Oman and adults in northwest Somalia and India. Notably, Niger and Algeria are also seeing active groups, with sporadic isolated hoppers and adults recorded in Mauritania and Morocco.
December saw a significant rise in locust control operations, with treatments conducted over 14,553 hectares compared to just 4,162 hectares in November. This increase is a response to the intensifying risk of locust proliferation, particularly in regions like Sudan and Eritrea where second-generation breeding is already occurring. Control measures have become imperative as populations have begun to migrate in search of new breeding grounds.
Forecasts indicate that as January progresses, second-generation breeding will gain momentum, particularly along the Sudan and Eritrea coasts, as well as potentially impacting southeast Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Small locust groups may remain active in northern Niger and southern Algeria, necessitating ongoing control efforts. Additional rainfall along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden may influence breeding capacities; however, no substantial changes are anticipated in the Eastern Region. Continued monitoring and control activities will be critical to managing this evolving situation effectively.
In summary, the locust situation as of January 6, 2025, highlights ongoing outbreaks across multiple regions, particularly concentrating in Eritrea, Niger, and Sudan. Control operations have seen significant escalation as the threat of second-generation breeding looms. Active monitoring and potential rain influences will be crucial in shaping future locust management strategies to mitigate their spread and breeding capabilities.
Original Source: www.fao.org
