Ethiopia is currently faced with the worst drought in 50 years. An initial dry spell extended throughout 2015 and then, with the affects of climate change and El Nino, the devastating lack of water could last for much of 2016. Upwards of 80 percent of Ethiopians rely on mostly rain-fed agriculture for their food and income.

Herds of animals can be seen for miles off in the distance, as their long journeys driven in search of water raise up impressive plumes of grey dust. Here, in the middle of Ethiopia's Rift Valley in Oromia, there would normally be perennial water sources, but the animals wander disoriented because even here, every drop is gone.

CRS is providing emergency food assistance to some of the most vulnerable Ethiopians.

Photo by Nancy McNally/Catholic Relief Services