New App Launched to Help Tackle Drought Challenges

In a bid to confront the challenges presented by drought conditions, the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has introduced a new tool, aptly named “Crops Drought,” aimed at aiding farmers. This development comes as part of a comprehensive strategy to address the ramifications of climate change on agriculture, affecting both crop productivity and the broader economic landscape.

Under the leadership of DAE Director-General Anchalee Suvachittanont, “Crops Drought” emerges as a valuable resource, furnishing users with vital information crucial for navigating drought-related adversities. This includes access to real-time soil moisture data, precise weather forecasts, and early detection of drought-prone regions up to four months in advance. Notably, the application showcases impressive predictive capabilities, boasting accuracy rates ranging from 73.7% for cassava to an impressive 92.9% for sugarcane.

The genesis of the “Crops Drought” app lies in the collaborative efforts between the department and diverse agencies. Leveraging prior models for evaluating drought risks and their agricultural impact, this innovation represents a concerted endeavor to fortify agricultural resilience amidst evolving climatic patterns.

As of now, the application has been disseminated to 450 agriculture volunteers, young farmers, and community leaders spanning nine provinces, including Uthai Thani, Surin, and Nakhon Ratchasima, among others. Accessible through platforms like the iOS App Store, Google Play Store, and its dedicated website, “Crops Drought” stands as a testament to proactive measures in mitigating the effects of climate-induced challenges on the agricultural sector.