The swarms originated in the extreme deserts of Sudan in the Sahara Desert. Uncharacteristic January intense rains coupled with cyclones have created the perfect mixture of humidity for locust breeding. With the huge populations now migrating both east and south, it is expected that the problem will get much worse before it gets better. In Eastern Africa, March is typically the time to plant crops, with a harvesting planned for June. The locusts are eating at such an alarming rate that come June there may be nothing left to harvest. Swarms are moving quite quickly as well, with growing numbers on the eastern side of the Red Sea moving their way into the Middle East, and Asia.

As once stable climate patterns shift, typical weather patterns are getting harder and harder to predict. In Afghanistan for instance this year they have had significant rainfall and flooding, providing quality conditions for more locust breeding. It is yet to be seen what effect this will have on the locust population in the region. Although there are locust swarms every year, this year seems to be the worst in some 25 years, solely because of the favorable breeding conditions.

Farmers with government support where possible are attempting to fight the locusts with insecticide. Because of the sheer size and speed of the moving swarms widespread insecticide use is proving rather ineffective.

To combat the locusts the Chinese government, who has growing economic interest in the region, is considering deploying 100,000 ducks to help control the locust population.