The occurrence of drought and its effects on plant production in Eastern Serbia

Abstract

According to the first estimations of regional climate changes, apart from the trend of the increase in air temperature within the region of southern Europe, the reduction of precipitation in the warm half of the year have been expected. The similar changes within the basic climate parameters were also registered at the local level of Serbia and Montenegro. In terms of degree of drought endanger the region of eastern Serbia particularly singles out.

Over 50 years (1951-2000), Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) was used for the analysis of drought occurrence in Eastern Serbia. According to the analysis, a higher frequency of droughty years, with more severe drought intensity, was registered in last two decades of the twentieth century. Drought periods are frequently followed by high temperatures. Over last 39 years the number of tropical days (max. temperatures over 300C) averaged 35.7, with an increase trend, primarily over last 20 years. The aforementioned climate conditions drastically reduce the yields of agricultural crops, particularly of spring crops (maize, sunflower, beans) and in some years, the yield almost completely lacks (maize). The estimation of drought damage in plant production within entire region approximated over 50 million EUR.

These figures sufficiently indicate that our awareness on drought appearance and problems which negatively influence national economy should get important accent in future and as well some steps towards climate changes adaptability should be implemented.