In Germany total precipitation was 23% below average over the period of analysis. From the middle of August rainfall (RAIN) deficits were recorded all over the country. Temperature and radiation were close to average (TEMP, 0.1°C and RADPAR, -2%) but biomass (BIOMSSS) was 16% below the recent five-year average.

Nationwide, the NDVI development curve was below both normal and last year’s values. In August and September, crops in over 35% of the country were in poor condition, with the notable exceptions of the northern regions. Dry conditions especially affected the central area from Nordrhein-Westfalen in the west to Saxony-Anchalt (where conditions were particularly poor) and southern regions of the country. Crop conditions assessed on the basis of NDVI are confirmed by VCIx values, which in the same regions did not exceed 0.5.

All over the country in October precipitation totals were close to average and well distributed. It boosted winter crop emergence and early development, especially in regions with scarce rainfalls in September. The NDVI spatial profiles indicate current crop condition slightly below average at this point.

Long lasting rainfall deficits during the reporting period benefited the ripening of summer crops but hampered sowing activities and the emergence of winter crops.

(a) Crop condition development graph based on NDVI   

(b) Maximum VCI

(c) Spatial NDVI patterns compared to 5YA and the coresponding NDVI departure profiles