Storm Damages Žemaitija Farmers' Crops and Harvest

Farmers in the Žemaitija region of Lithuania are facing significant losses after a weekend storm submerged large portions of their unharvested crops. Wheat and beans were particularly affected, with fields left waterlogged, hindering the timely sowing of winter rapeseed.

The storm's impact extends beyond crop damage. Widespread power outages caused further distress, especially for livestock farms that rely on electricity for essential operations like milking cows. Some farmers were also unable to use drying equipment, adding to their mounting losses.

The exact extent of the damage is still being calculated by farmers. There is considerable doubt among farmer organizations about the availability of state support. Crop insurance in Lithuania typically covers only about one-third of the losses, leaving farmers to bear a substantial burden. This situation highlights the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to extreme weather events and the potential inadequacy of current support systems.