ALMATY, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Kazakhstan is expected to face hot and dry weather conditions across much of the country in May, raising concerns about potential drought, the country's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan Nysanbayev said on Monday.

"Droughts are expected in May in the southern part of Kostanay Region, the southwest of West Kazakhstan and Mangistau regions, the northwest of Kyzylorda Region, the northern parts of Almaty and Zhambyl regions, the southern part of Karaganda Region, and in some areas of Aktobe, Atyrau, Abay and Turkistan regions," Nysanbayev said during a government meeting.

The minister noted that the past winter had been unusually warm and snowy in many areas, resulting in favorable initial soil moisture conditions.

"However, the abnormally hot weather in April led to accelerated evaporation and rapid loss of moisture. In West Kazakhstan Region, soil moisture during the sowing period is expected to be insufficient. Therefore, it is recommended that spring planting in grain-producing regions be conducted earlier than usual," he said.

Looking ahead, average air temperatures in June are expected to remain within the seasonal norm, ranging from 17 to 20 degrees Celsius in the north and center, and from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius in the west.

"According to preliminary forecasts, August and September are expected to be favorable for crop development and harvesting. No prolonged or heavy rainfall is expected, and average monthly temperatures across most of the country are likely to be around one degree above the norm," added Nysanbayev. ■