Ex-Cyclone Alfred has impacted Australia's agricultural sector, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales. The storm's slow movement caused extensive damage to infrastructure and farmlands. The Lockyer Valley Region, known for its agricultural output, suffered heavy flooding, affecting a wide range of crops.
Reports indicate that the Lockyer Valley Region contributes approximately 40% of Queensland's fruit and vegetables and over 95% of Australia's winter produce. The availability of winter crops like beans, corn, and lettuce is likely to be affected. Farmers have reported damage to soybeans, macadamias, pecans, bananas, apples, avocados, blueberries, and various vegetables.
The economic implications are noteworthy. New South Wales farmers have reported damages amounting to $11 million as of mid-March. The national economy could face repercussions, with potential losses to the gross domestic product, including agriculture, estimated at up to $760 million.
Extreme weather events, such as ex-Cyclone Alfred, are linked to rising global temperatures, impacting food security and prices. Crop destruction can lead to increased produce prices due to reduced yield. Soil health and planting conditions may also be affected, further influencing economic outcomes.
While immediate impacts on store shelves may not be visible due to existing stock, consumers might experience price changes by early winter. This is attributed to planting disruptions, as farmers are unable to plant crops that typically harvest within 12 weeks. "The prices may affect consumers in two months or three months because the planting gaps will start," stated Lockyer Valley Growers Association president Michael Sippell to ABC News.
Support measures for affected farms include government loans and subsidies, as well as grants and income subsidies for impacted families and workers. Nonprofits are also providing food and nutrition support in the aftermath of the storm. Despite anticipated interruptions, imported and shelf-stable foods are expected to remain available and stable in price. Notably, rice crops benefited from the cyclone's rains, following a dry start to the season.
Source: TCD