The months of July and August are characterised by a usual decrease in rainfall accumulations in Nicaragua, this phenomenon is known as canícula. In Central America, the canícula usually occurs from 10 to 20 July and from 5 to 15 August. However, in 2018 the canícula came earlier, especially in the eastern region and the central plateau. In the extended Dry Corridor, there were points where 24 to 32 days without rain were measured.

The main objectives of the consultancy are as follows:

• Contribute to the knowledge of the potential impact of rainfall deficit in the Central American Dry Corridor, with emphasis on the Department of Madriz, Nicaragua.
• Collect agro-climatic and vegetation status information in Nicaragua.
• Produce analysis and maps of precipitation deficits and vegetation status in Nicaragua, during the rainy season (May-September 2018).
• Elaborate thematic maps of livelihoods related to the production of coffee and basic grains in Nicaragua, with emphasis on the Department of Madriz, and the area of influence of the Río Coco Geopark.