Extreme heat and agriculture

The frequency, intensity and duration of extreme heat events have risen sharply over the past half century, with worrying impacts on agrifood systems and landscapes, according to this report. Extreme heat refers to situations where daytime and nighttime temperatures rise above their usual ranges for a protracted period, leading to physiological stress and direct physical damages to food crops, livestock, fish, trees and human beings. The report examines how extreme heat ripples through agricultural systems and how heatwaves can interact with other climatological variables, including rain, solar radiation, humidity, wind and drought – to trigger compound effects that wreak havoc on individuals and entire ecosystems. The joint FAO-WMO report’s sections describe the physical science of extreme heat, the vulnerabilities, observed and projected impacts on agriculture, adaptation strategies, case studies, and offer policy recommendations.

The report points to the need for innovation and the implementation of adaptive measures such as selective breeding and crop choices adjusted to the new climate reality, adjusting planting windows and altering management practices that can shelter crops and agricultural activities from the impacts of extreme heat. Early warning systems are a particularly important tool in aiding farmers in their efforts to respond to extreme heat. Access to financial services – cash transfers, insurance and payment schemes, shock-responsive social protection schemes and other forms – underpins all categories of adaptation options. Technical solutions are necessary but by themselves will be insufficient without addressing pervasive socio-economic barriers in low- and middle-income countries, including limited access to information, education, awareness and training.