Key facts
- Europe's grain farmers are estimated to have lost €2 billion in revenue.
- A June heatwave destroyed 9 million tonnes of European grain crops.
- Europe's grain harvest is the smallest since 2018.
- Austria's grain harvest is expected to shrink by 19%.
- Austrian farmers are sending cattle for early slaughter due to heat and lack of rain.
- The heatwave and drought have stunted crops in Austria.
- Concerns are raised about food security and potential price increases.
Europe's grain farmers are facing significant financial losses, estimated at €2 billion, as a result of a June heatwave that also led to the destruction of 9 million tonnes of crops. This year's harvest is anticipated to be the smallest recorded since 2018, sparking concerns regarding food security and the potential for increased food prices throughout the region.
In Austria, the agricultural sector is grappling with the severe effects of a scorching summer characterized by intense heat and a lack of rainfall. These conditions have stunted crop growth, leading to an expected 19% reduction in the country's grain harvest. Furthermore, Austrian farmers are being compelled to send their cattle for early slaughter due to the scarcity of feed and water, a direct consequence of the prolonged dry spell.