Bolivian livestock hit by severe snowfalls in Potosí and Oruro

Severe snowfall in the Bolivian highlands has caused significant livestock losses, particularly affecting camelid producers in the Potosí and Oruro departments. In the Sud Lípez province of Potosí, producers report that between 50% and 60% of their livestock has been affected as heavy snow covers pastures, preventing animals from feeding. Local producers are requesting urgent supplies of forage and fuel to mitigate the crisis, noting that upcoming dry periods may further hinder pasture recovery.

In the Turco municipality of Oruro, the Municipal Council has declared a natural disaster in the Chachacomani district following the deaths of dozens of llamas, alpacas, and sheep. The emergency was exacerbated by multiple snowfalls in August, which left animals trapped in mud or weakened by hunger. Additionally, local producers reported that fox attacks have targeted weakened or injured animals. The disaster declaration aims to allow local authorities to access extraordinary resources to support the affected families in communities such as Quimsaqui, Jawirquta, Pampa Mogachi, and Vilaque.