# Red Palm Weevil outbreak in Argentina and Uruguay > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/red-palm-weevil-outbreak-in-argentina-and-uruguay > Updated: 2026-08-31T16:21:37.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. The Red Palm Weevil, an invasive beetle from Southeast Asia, has been detected in the Entre Ríos province of Argentina. Initial reports confirmed the presence of the pest near Colonia Elía along the Uruguay River, prompting the National Service for Agri-Food Health and Quality (Senasa) and local ministries to activate contingency plans to protect native palm groves, such as the yatay palm. Following the detection, Argentina declared a phytosanitary emergency in the provinces of Buenos Aires and Entre Ríos, lasting until June 30, 2028. The infestation has caused severe damage to Phoenix canariensis specimens. In response to the potential spread across the Uruguay River, authorities in Salto, Uruguay, have reinforced preventive surveillance. While the pest has been active in Uruguay since 2022—with urban infestation rates reaching up to 60%—local officials are now conducting monthly monitoring of over 200 palm trees and using traps to prevent further cross-border movement. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Red Palm Weevil detection triggers phytosanitary emergency in Argentina Argentina has declared a phytosanitary emergency in Entre Ríos and Buenos Aires due to the Red Palm Weevil, prompting increased surveillance in Salto, Uruguay, to prevent cross-border spread. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/red-palm-weevil-detection-triggers-phytosanitary-emergency-in-argentina ### 2026-08-19: Entre Ríos authorities confirm first detection of Red Palm Weevil The Red Palm Weevil has been detected for the first time in Entre Ríos, Argentina, prompting an emergency contingency plan to protect native palm species near Colonia Elía. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/entre-ros-authorities-confirm-first-detection-of-red-palm-weevil --- Cite as: Red Palm Weevil outbreak in Argentina and Uruguay. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/red-palm-weevil-outbreak-in-argentina-and-uruguay