Poland faces ongoing drought and challenges in corn harvesting

Poland continues to struggle with a persistent hydrological drought despite recent autumn rainfall. Experts note that while seasonal precipitation is vital, current levels are insufficient to replenish soil moisture significantly. In the Małopolska region, specifically in Załuczne and Pieniążkowice, crisis management teams have been established due to the severity of the dry conditions. In the Czarny Dunajec commune, approximately 1,600 residents have seen their private wells stop functioning.

The drought is linked to rising temperatures and shifting climate patterns. Data indicates that September was 1.1 degrees Celsius warmer than the long-term average, and October is projected to be one of the warmest on record. This warming trend affects the rate of evaporation and moisture retention in the soil.

For farmers, these conditions complicate the corn harvest. High moisture levels in corn kernels (often between 32% and 35%) persist even without rain due to low temperatures and high humidity, which prevent effective drying. Farmers face a difficult decision between waiting for natural drying—which slows significantly in late October—and risking crop loss from lodging or decreased grain quality.