Extreme Drought Hits European Agriculture and Livestock
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Severe drought and heatwaves across Europe are causing significant losses in the entire agricultural production chain, from grain harvests to sugar beets and livestock.
Drought and Livestock Crisis in European Agriculture
Extreme heat and a severe drought wave across Europe have directly shaken the agricultural production and livestock sectors. England experienced its driest July in 190 years, with significant yield losses recorded in grain production. In France, dried pastures led to relaxed standards for Comté, Beaufort, and Abondance cheeses, allowing for external feed supplies. In the Czech Republic, a fourfold increase in hay bale prices forced farmers to send cattle for early slaughter.
Historic Yield Loss in Sugar Beets
Drought conditions are severely impacting industrial crop production and yield expectations across the continent. According to major producer Tereos, a more than 20% decrease in sugar beet yields compared to last year is anticipated due to the dry weather wave. Current projections indicate that sugar production across Europe could fall to its lowest level in 38 years. This negative picture, created by the climate crisis, is increasing pressure on agricultural supply and costs.