Extreme weather contrasts in Chile and Argentina

In the Antofagasta Region of Chile, the high-altitude community of Machuca, located north of San Pedro de Atacama, has experienced significant snowfall. Images shared by the local Atacameña community show a transformed landscape where mountains, roads, and homes are covered in white, contrasting with the typical desert scenery. The footage also captures local fauna, including flamingos and vicuñas, moving through the snow.

In contrast, the Chubut province of Argentina is facing severe water level decreases in the Amutui Quimey reservoir within Los Alerces National Park. Diver and photographer Marcos Ponce documented that the water level has dropped approximately 20 meters due to prolonged lack of rain and snow. Ponce noted that areas previously accessible only by diving are now walkable, warning that such droughts can lead to increased fire risks and water restrictions for cities and local production.