Blog note. Jesus indicated that ‘fearful sights’ (various natural disasters) would occur leading up to the time known as the Tribulation and Great Tribulation (a combined seven year period of great destruction on earth). Although these types of things have occurred in the past for centuries and thousands of years, they could be identified as the ‘season of the times’ due to the ferociousness of these events. They would be occurring in greater intensity, severity, frequency, size, duration, scope … just like the pains that a woman experiences in labor the farther along she is in the labor process. We are in the ‘season of the times’ that comes just before the seven (7) year Tribulation/Great Tribulation period
… And great earthquakes shall be in diverse places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. (Luke 21:11).
… And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; (Luke 21:25)
… Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken; (Luke 21:26)
… This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (2 Timothy 3:1)
Jesus is giving a series of prophecies about what to look for as the age of grace comes to a close. These verses are several of many such prophecies from throughout the Bible. 2017 was the worst year in recorded history for the intensity, frequency, severity, duration and occurrence of a large number of severe natural disasters worldwide. Earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones, torrential flooding, unprecedented wildfires in unusual places, devastating droughts, excessive/scorching heat setting records everywhere, record snowfalls in Europe and Russia. Snow in the Arabia. This list can go on. Most studied Eschatologists believe these ‘fearful sights’ and massive natural disasters are all part of the ‘CONVERGENCE’ of signs that this Biblical and prophetic age is closing. Most people who study prophecy are familiar with the routine reference(s) made that these things will be like a woman having labor.

1.1 million food insecure, food prices increase sharply as severe drought takes over Kenya

Posted by Grace Nona on May 6, 2019. Watchers.news

Below average rainfall across Kenya during the short rainy season from October to December of 2018 has been compounded by a delayed long rainy season from March to May of 2019. A drought alert has been raised for 15 arid and semi-arid counties while five counties have already reached the alarm stage (last stage before emergency). 

According to the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), The dry conditions and high temperatures experienced from January to March have pushed more counties into the Alarm drought stage, from 1 in February to 5 in March. 20 ASAL counties are reporting a worsening trend and only 3 indicate a stable trend. Counties in the Alarm drought phase are Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, Marsabit and Turkana.

Average distances to water for both households and livestock increased in March in more counties. In most ASAL areas, reduced availability of pasture and water in March compared to February resulted in rapid deterioration in livestock body condition and decreased milk production.

NDMA also highlighted that current milk production in 12 counties including Garissa, Turkana, Kajiado, Marsabit, Samburu, Tana River, Mandera, Laikipia, Narok, Makueni, Lamu and Nyeri (Kieni) is below expected season ranges compared to the long-term average.

Delay in the start of the long rains has affected timelines for farming activities, especially land preparation and planting. As a result, farmers have been advised to plant fast-maturing crops following the projected short rainfall season and drought-tolerant crops in areas expected to receive below-average rainfall.

As a consequence, pastures have dried up, livestock have weakened and reduced options for livestock migration may result in conflict over scarce resources, DG ECHO reports.

In recent weeks, food prices have increased sharply and a further increase is expected in the coming months. The depletion of food stocks is likely to result in negative coping mechanisms.

1.1 million people are already considered food insecure, including 843 900 severely. Acute malnutrition among children under 5 and pregnant and lactating mothers is on the rise, affecting 541 309 individuals in April 2019.

Food assistance and emergency water supply are needed as a life-saving measure.

The situation is making the government reconsider its 2012 import ban on genetically modified maize.