Extreme weather events have led to the collapse of food production systems, agricultural ecosystems, disruption of food systems causing food insecurities. The contrary effects of climate variability and change, refer to flooding, heat waves, frost, nevertheless this study examine drought, which occurs frequently in the Free State province where Kestel automatic weather station is located. The application of drought index analysis is required for drought assessment for decision making on adaptation and mitigation strategies on farm level. Understanding of drought severity and frequency plays a significant role in decision-making. For this study to analyse drought, Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) in an index to characterise rainfall deficit for multiple time scales. Drought episodes has been experience at the study area, with 2015 recorded the severe drought occurrence. Thus, drought assessment is crucial to determine the duration and the frequency of episodes. The analysis indicate that severe drought occurred in 2015 with the value of drought index at SPI-1 (-1,5) in 1990, (-1,8) in 1993, (-1,6) in 1997, (-1.64) in 2001, and (-1.2) in 2007. SPI-3 the index value was (-1,8) in 2000, (-1,5) in 2002, (-2,2) in 2007, and (-1,3) in 2013. SPI-6 the index value ranged from (-,30 to -0,32) in 1992-1994, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2006, 2013, 2014, 2018 and 2019. SPI-9 the index value ranged from -1,08 to -1,15) in 1990, 1999, 2008, 2010 and 2019. SPI-12 (-1,3) in 1990, (-1,74) in 1992, (-1,97) in 2005 and (-3,02) in 2015. The results highlights the significance of the use of drought identification, its severity and impact of agricultural production. Characterisation of drought severity guides users for the implementation of drought relief policies and measures at farm level in Kestel area.