An abnormal spring is destroying the harvest: up to 51% of apricots have been lost in the Mykolaiv region

March became the driest in over 30 years

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04 Apr 2026

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In the Mykolaiv region significant apricot crop losses have been recorded due to weather anomalies. According to the data of the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, the loss of flower buds reached up to 51%, which is one of the highest rates among regions of Ukraine.

Experts note that due to abnormally warm weather, spring processes began earlier than usual. The final crossing of the mean daily temperature above +5°C across most of Ukraine occurred already on 3–11 March 2026, which is 2–3 weeks earlier than normal.

At the same time, March 2026 became the driest since 1991. A deficit of precipitation and low air humidity caused a rapid loss of moisture in the soil. During the month, for 1 to 10 days, and in Zakarpattia — up to 18 days, relative air humidity dropped to 30% and below, creating conditions for dry winds.

In addition to apricots, partial losses were recorded in other fruit crops. In particular, the death of flower buds of sour cherry in some regions ranged from 2% to 15%, sweet cherry — up to 14–16%, apple trees — from 3% to 14%. At the same time, no damage was found in peach, plum, pear and grapevines.

Despite difficult weather conditions, most areas of winter crops are in good or excellent condition. According to experts’ estimates, about 12% of the sowing areas may require reseeding or overseeding.

At the same time, farmers have already begun sowing spring cereals and legume crops early. As of 31 March, soil temperature at a depth of 10 cm (from 7 to 15°C) allowed sowing operations.

Meteorologists warn: if the precipitation deficit persists, conditions for drought development may form in many areas in the near future.