The first week of August is barely over when the precipitation meter is already well above 100 millimeters in some places. Especially last weekend it was hit in Southwest Netherlands. Exciting moments for arable farmers in particular. Potatoes and onions are drowning and wheat fields turn black and green at the same time.
During the night of Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 August, Zeeland, South Holland and West Brabant experienced a heavy rainfall. Several tens of millimeters fell in a relatively short time. It was particularly successful in Goeree-Overflakkee in South Holland. Up to 70 millimeters of water fell there, causing plots to become flooded.
Hollandse Delta Water Board had to provide emergency pumps place because in many places the water level was still well above the summer level. As a result, flooding could occur quickly.
More than 100 millimeters
In one week, many places in the south and center of the country have now received 100 millimeters or more of precipitation. It has also become quite wet in places in Belgium. There is currently no major damage to the crops, with some exceptions, but it is by no means pleasant. The multi-year average of 83 millimeters for August has been comfortably exceeded, while we still have three weeks ahead of us.
The grains in particular are severely affected by this type of weather. A combination of precipitation, driving rain and wind causes the wheat to droop and lodge. Shots can then occur quickly, which is now clearly visible in many places. Large spots turn green due to the germinating wheat in the ear or on the ground. Many wheats were already ripe at the end of July, which is why these plots are now turning black.
It has been a long time since summer has been this wet. This last happened in August 2006, when 184 millimeters fell. This made it the wettest summer in a hundred years. Hopefully 2023 won't break that record.
Disease pressure
As long as the potatoes are not left in the water for too long, no permanent damage will occur. A very high disease pressure is now a challenge for growers and the crops. Phytophthora is spreading with these conditions. The disease pressure is also high in onions.
It is also far from dry in the countries around us. The whole of Northwestern Europe is experiencing a soaking wet summer. Hopefully it should be there later this week change income. A warmer and drier weather type is moving north from the south of Europe. It remains slightly colder than average for August. More stable weather is also expected in the longer term with nice summer weather.