The UN World Food Program (WFP) warned Tuesday that Syria was facing a drought that could put the lives of millions of people at risk, exacerbating the devastating impact of years of civil war. "WFP is concerned about the impact of a looming drought hitting the northwest of the country - mainly Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama - with rainfall less than half of the long-term average and potentially major impacts on the next cereal harvest," said WFP spokeswoman Elisabeth Byrs. The affected regions normally account for more than half the country's annual wheat harvest, and water shortages also could affect livestock farming. "This could put the lives of millions at risk if the drought continues," Byrs told reporters in Geneva. The WFP currently is able to supply aid to 4.5 million people in Syria, but the agency estimates there are 6.5 million in the country who need food assistance. The UN refugee agency said Tuesday the numbers of Syrians fleeing to neighboring countries could rise if there is a drought. So far, the civil war has killed more than 150,000 people and driven 9 million from their homes, including 2.6 million refugees who have fled abroad, according to the latest UN figures.
