started · updated
Latin American nations implement emergency measures for El Niño
Various nations in Latin America are implementing emergency measures and preventive strategies to prepare for the El Niño phenomenon. In Ecuador, the government has declared a red alert, identifying approximately 1.3 million people as potentially vulnerable across 17 provinces. To mitigate impacts, the administration has allocated over USD 100 million for electrical sector prevention and has coordinated with the United Nations to strengthen food security, health, and water sanitation efforts. Additionally, the Ministry of Economy reported that between January and August 2026, the government disbursed USD 5,268 million for public services and state obligations, including a 76% increase in VAT refunds for seniors and people with disabilities.
In other regions, authorities are also taking action. Argentina is focusing on drainage maintenance in Formosa and hydraulic infrastructure coordination in the Río Salado basin. Chile is preparing for forest fire risks and energy efficiency programs due to potential droughts. Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic has scheduled a national earthquake evacuation drill to enhance disaster response capabilities. These coordinated efforts reflect a regional push to bolster resilience against extreme hydrometeorological events.
Entities
Daniel Noboa · EDP · Ecuador · Government of Ecuador · Guayaquil Municipality · Instituto Uruguayo de Meteorología · Ministry of Economic Development and Productive · National Risk Management Secretariat · ProChile · Sercop · United Nations
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Azuay will conduct a provincial emergency drill between September 23 and 25. elmercurio.com.ec
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chilean exports to Ecuador reached USD 432 million between January and July 2026, a 33.2% increase.
- [● 2 SOURCES] VAT refunds for seniors and people with disabilities grew by 76% compared to 2025. elmercuriomanta.ec · www.elcomercio.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Ecuador allocated USD 5,268 million to state suppliers, public services, and VAT refunds between January and August 2026. elmercuriomanta.ec · www.elcomercio.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The government has allocated over USD 100 million for preventive actions in the electricity sector to face El Niño. manabinoticias.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The amount represents a 38% increase compared to the same period in 2025. elmercuriomanta.ec · www.elcomercio.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sercop has suspended approximately 90% of Guayaquil Municipality's procurement processes, totaling USD 56 million. guayaquil.gob.ec · ecuadorendirecto.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The suspension of contracts affects essential services including health, public works, and fuel for machinery. guayaquil.gob.ec · ecuadorendirecto.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Approximately 1.3 million people in Ecuador are potentially exposed to the effects of El Niño. notimercio.ec · ecuadorcomunicacion.com