In southern China, the period from January to April mainly covers the planting of early rice and the growing season of winter wheat. The crop condition was mixed during the entire period: generally above average between January and February, below average from March to April - possibly due to heavy rain and low temperature - and average again at the end of April. For the period as a whole, RAIN was almost double the average (+99%) and and a negative temperature departure was recorded (-1.1°C)

Compared to the recent 5 year average, parts of Southern Fujian and Southern Guangxi both show below average crop condition in March and April, according to the spatial NDVI patterns and NDVI profiles. This was brought about by excess rain  (+ 96% in Guangxi and +85% Fujian). The area will need close scrutiny in the subsequent monitoring periods. Southern Yunnan and Southern Guangdong show a mix of average and anomalous climate variables: in Yunnan, Rain was average (+1%) but TEMP and RADPAR were low (-1.1°C and -6%, respectively); in Guangdong Rainfall was still significantly above average (+45%) but TEMP and RADPAR were average (0.0°C and -2%). From the potential biomass point of view, Southern Yunnan shows a significant biomass production potential drop (20%) and will need close monitoring over the coming months. Even if CALF increased 2% over the average of the previous five years, the excess precipitation is likely to negatively influence the current winter crops. Summer crops are likely to benefit from abundant soil moisture.

Figure 4.15. Crop condition Southern China region, January-April2016

(a)Crop condition development graph based on NDVI

(b)Spatial NDVI patterns compared to 5YA                            (c) NDVI profile

(d) Maximum VCI                                                                                  (e) Biomass