El Niño threatens agriculture, fisheries and water resources in Peru and Argentina

Climate experts warned that the developing El Niño event could have severe consequences across South America. In Argentina, Horacio Zambón of the provincial water coordination unit highlighted the risk of altered evaporation and wind patterns over the Gran Chaco, which could affect the Pilcomayo, Bermejo and Paraguay river basins.

In Peru, the phenomenon is expected to generate intense rain in the inter‑Andean valleys and coastal areas of Arequipa, raising the danger of flash floods, landslides and river overflows. Marine temperatures 2‑5 °C above normal have already cut fishing activity by 31% in the first five months, jeopardising export earnings that were projected at $5 billion this year. Agricultural analysts estimate up to a $1 billion loss in export crops, while the Piura region could face damages of roughly S/ 3.5 billion.

The olive sector in Tacna faces the greatest threat, with the regional agriculture director warning that more than 80 % of production could be lost, endangering thousands of families. In the Cañete valley, a potato pest linked to higher temperatures has forced the destruction of 10 hectares, costing about S/ 20 000 per hectare and threatening broader market supply. The Áncash regional government approved a contingency plan budgeted at over 7 million soles to bolster flood response and disaster preparedness.

To mitigate the impacts, Peru’s Congress approved a $2.8 billion budget for infrastructure and emergency works, while local authorities in the affected regions are mobilising technical assistance and relief measures.