Stem rust alert on wheat in Southern Ethiopia, Africa

A severe, localised stem rust epidemic has broken out in southern Ethiopia, Africa during November-December 2013. Bale zone is the most seriously affected, but some spread into other areas is now being reported. The previously resistant cultivar "Digelu" is showing extreme susceptibility, with unsprayed crops exhibiting 100 percent incidence. Fields with close to 100 percent loss have been observed.

Approximately 10 000 ha (24 711 acres) of wheat have been effected.Some effective control has been achieved with fungicides.
 
Samples are currently undergoing analysis. Currently no definitive information is available on the race(s) involved in the epidemic. Within the next few weeks causal race(s) should be determined.
 
To determine the potential risk in the surrounding region, comprehensive modelling of viable spore deposition from the Bale epidemic has been undertaken. Extreme caution and vigilance is needed in East Africa and the Middle East region. This is an on-going situation.