According to the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) climate bulletin, hot and dry conditions continue in large areas of southern China. Rainfall totals in August were almost nil for some locations, with almost 20 days without significant rainfall.

In addition, temperatures remained well above normal, with locations recording readings up to 10°C above normal, with temperatures above 40°C and areas with at least 20 consecutive days above 35°C.  

Although most summer crops were in the last stages of development, heat and drought reduced crop yields, including rice from the last crop. 

In contrast, the wettest conditions remained favorable vegetfor grain and oilseed filling in the Northern Plains of China, although heat periods (above 35°C) have also caused stress in the region. 

Further north, persistent rainfall (10-50 mm or more) sustained soil moisture for the filling of summer crops and prospects favourable income rates; rainfall totals since July 1 were the highest in the last 30 years in Jilin and Liaoning.

In western China, the records were of passing rainfall (up to 25 mm) which hindered the ripening of cotton due to moisture, although the yield prospects remained better than last year.

Source: Agrolink