Overall, when integrating the findings of the various agroclimatic and agronomic indicators, most parts of Western Europe presented favorable condition of summer crop and a large average VCIx value (0.83) over the monitoring period. (See also figure 2.5.)

Rainfall (RAIN) and temperature (TEMP) were generally favorable from Julyto October 2014, with above average values for both rainfall (+7%) and temperature (+0.6°C). Three percent below average RADPAR was observed over the same period. The above average climatic conditions are beneficial for late crop development and maturation.

The condition of crops was above average, as suggested by 12% above average biomass (BIOMSS). Biomass accumulation in west and southwest France and northern and south-central Spain, however, was well below average (20% lower),while in contrast, biomass in most other regions was 10% above average. The rainfall deficit from early August to September and the continuously below average temperature in mid-August in west and southwest France and northern and south-central Spain was the main reason for the low biomass, which is confirmed by the low values of the VHI minimum map and below average values of VCIx.

Although cropping Intensity (120%) was down 6% compared with the five-year-average, more than 93% of the arable lands were cropped in July to October 2014, 1% higher than the recent five-year average. Only central Spanish regions show un cropped land from July to October. Accordingly, maximum VCI was lower as well, compared with other regions in the MPZ. Generally, crop condition in Western Europe was above average relative to both the thirteen-year and the five-year averages. Pixels with low minimum VHI (below 15) are found sporadically in northeastern France, southern Germany, and south-centra lBritain, but especially in central Spain.

Figure 2.5. Western Europe MPZ: Agroclimaticand agronomic indicators, July-October 2014