31/07/2026 21:15 - Actualidad
On July 31, 2026, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that the El Niño phenomenon is rapidly intensifying in the western Pacific. While it presents challenges in the form of extraordinary rains, it also offers a valuable opportunity to anticipate risks and relieve historic droughts.
Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the WMO, highlighted that this development gives governments and communities the chance to act before impacts manifest. Furthermore, for Argentina's Cuyo region (the western provinces including Mendoza and San Juan), this phenomenon could mean the long-awaited relief from a prolonged drought lasting over 15 years.
Effects will vary by region, creating a dynamic climate map:
Litoral and Río de la Plata Basin: (Northeast and Central-East) Increased probability of abundant rains, with rising levels in the Paraná, Uruguay, and Iguazú rivers.
Cuyo: (West) Possible relief from the prolonged 15-year drought, depending on winter intensity.
Patagonia: (South) Extreme temperatures are projected, with highs that could reach 42 °C or even 45 °C in Neuquén, northern Río Negro, and eastern Chubut.
The National Meteorological Service warns about a line of strong to severe storms starting between Mar del Plata and Santa Rosa, moving northeast. Over northeast Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, and Entre Ríos, expected rainfall accumulation of 30 to 75 mm in a few hours provides relief for the core agricultural zone, though caution is advised due to potential hail and gusts.
With a proactive approach, the Argentine government launched the Federal Coordination Plan ENOS 2026/2027, led by the Federal Emergency Agency (AFE). This inter-jurisdictional program prioritizes the prevention of extreme storms in Misiones, Corrientes, Santa Fe, Entre Ríos, and Buenos Aires, demonstrating that anticipation is the best tool to protect communities.
Sources: La Nación, LM Neuquén, La Brújula 24, La Nueva, Agrofy
Alfredo S. Quiroga
