Indonesia is expected to suffer the worst drought in five years this year, the Jakarta Post quoted a representative from the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN).

LAPAN representative Erma Yulihastin referred to impacts of the El Nino phenomenon or the anomaly in sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.

She also said the drought in July would happen across 80 percent of Indonesia’s territory, except parts of Kalimantan and Sumatra which will see rain.

The institute warned the government and the public to be prepared for the harsh season and its effects on agriculture.

Indonesia’s national stock is likely to be impacted until the end of this year and LAPAN does not recommend planting any new seeds at this time, the representative added.

Farmers in West Java have started to feel the impact of the prolonged dry season with almost 20 areas threatened with crop failures.-VNA