France's grass growth remains significantly below average despite recent rains, with deficits reaching 43% nationally.
Weather improves grass growth slightly
On 20 October, cooler temperatures and returning rain led to a modest improvement in grass growth, according to a report by Agreste released on 28 October. This followed a prolonged dry spell that had significantly impacted agricultural conditions.Grass growth remains below average
Despite the recent weather changes, the deficit in grass growth compared to the reference period remains significant, averaging 43 percent. Agreste noted this is the lowest level in at least 40 years, based on its analysis of the Isop model published on 16 October.Cumulative growth still lagging
As of 20 October 2026, the cumulative growth of permanent pastures in France outside the DROM (Departments and Overseas Territories) is still 43 percent below the reference average, which is calculated using data from 1989 to 2018. This represents only 55 percent of the annual reference growth, compared to an average of 96 percent at this time of year.Recent growth progress minimal
The return of rain and cooler temperatures has only modestly revived grass growth, contributing 2 percent of the normal annual growth over the last month. This is well below the average of 8 percent typically seen during this period.Rainfall helps but not enough
Météo-France reported in a bulletin on 26 October that rainfall in October has been notable in some areas, providing some relief from the drought. However, the agency warned that these rains have not been sufficient to restore normal soil moisture levels for the autumn season.Soil dryness persists
According to Météo-France, soil dryness is expected to remain a concern across much of the country. This indicates that while there has been some improvement, the overall conditions are still far from normal, affecting agricultural productivity and water availability.Deficit widespread across France
Agreste reports that grass growth is still significantly below average across most of metropolitan France. The deficit exceeds 30 percent in 85 percent of forage regions, with some areas, such as those connecting Limousin to Alsace, experiencing a deficit of over 50 percent.Some regions less affected
Only areas around the Mediterranean Sea, the northern part of the Alps, and a few local exceptions show smaller deficits in grass growth. These regions have been relatively less impacted by the prolonged dry conditions compared to the rest of the country.
