CFS2_R201503

Himalayas: Exceptional surplus conditions continue into summer

Portions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and southern China are forecast to experience exceptional water surpluses during this period.  This raises the possibility of broad area flooding, particularly if the monsoon begins while the ground is already saturated from earlier surpluses.

Central America: Severe deficits in 2nd half of 2015

WSIM forecasts a strong drought in southern Mexico and Central America peaking in intensity over the six month period from July through December 2015 as shown in the map depicting the WSIM Composite Surplus/Deficit Index. Exceptionally dry conditions are expected across the southern half of Mexico and Central America, especially in Costa Rica and the western parts of Panama and Nicaragua, and follow significant droughts in the region last summer.  Surpluses are forecast in northwest Mexico.

Western United States: Deficit impacts continue into Sept 2015

The prolonged drought in California has garnered significant political, public, and media attention. The WSIM Composite Surplus/Deficit Index for the next six months (April-Sept 2015), significant deficits will persist or intensify throughout much of the region, including Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona.  The multi-year regional drought is already impacting agriculture, electricity generation, domestic supplies, and real-estate development.

Coastal Western Africa: Exceptional deficit impacts through end of 2015

WSIM forecasts a widespread and exceptional drought for coastal West Africa (Gabon through Sierra Leone) peaking from July through Dec 2015. The affected region includes heavily populated areas of Nigeria and the countries facing challenges in the aftermath of the Ebola outbreak.