El Niño phenomenon triggers drought and heatwaves across Latin America

The El Niño phenomenon is causing widespread climatic distress across Latin America, impacting agriculture, livestock, and water security.

In Colombia, the Atlántico department is experiencing temperatures exceeding 45 °C. Producers report that thermal stress is reducing milk productivity and livestock health due to water scarcity and dried reservoirs. The Association of Departmental Users of Peasants of Atlántico (ANUC) has called for urgent government intervention.

In Peru, Senamhi has issued a red alert for over 20 regions due to an intense heatwave and high UV radiation levels. These conditions, linked to the Coastal El Niño, are expected to persist through the first quarter of 2027.

Central American nations are also facing severe consequences. In El Salvador, authorities warn that the most critical phase of the drought will occur between January and April 2027, threatening the production of 6.9 million quintals of basic grains. In Honduras, the drought has been described as having the highest impact in five decades, leading to the death of hundreds of cattle and rising prices for dairy and meat products.

Across the Central American Dry Corridor, approximately 11.5 million people who depend on subsistence agriculture are at risk, placing significant pressure on regional food supplies.