As shown by the spatial NDVI patterns and profiles map, CropWatch estimates that the crop condition was below average in Southern China. The rainfall was moderately below average, and so were temperature and radiation (RAIN -6%, TEMP -0.5℃, RADPAR -2%). As a result of the slightly below average climate conditions, the biomass was also close to average, while the cropped arable land fraction (CALF) decreased by 2%.

During this reporting period, Guangdong and Guangxi suffered deficits of rainfall:  -14% and -10%, respectively. In these two provinces, the temperature was below average（Guangdong-0.2℃, Guangxi -0.5℃）, and the shortage of rainfall was unfavorable for crops and biomass accumulation. In Yunnan, the rainfall, temperature, and radiation were below average (RAIN -2%, TEMP -0.7℃, RADPAR -3%). Considering that Yunnan province is frequently impacted by drought, the below average conditions during the monitoring period will hamper the crop development.

Figure 4.12. Crop condition Southern China region, April 2018-July 2018.

(a) Crop condition development graph based on NDVI

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

(d) Maximum VCI

(e) Biomass