Super El Niño: the effects scientists forecast for Latin America

Scientists forecast a climate phenomenon of great magnitude for this year. El Niño is shaping up to be “very strong”, and a large part of Latin America will experience more extreme weather: heat waves, droughts and torrential rains.

What to expect

• Heat waves more intense and prolonged in several regions.
• Droughts affecting crops, drinking water and hydroelectric generation.
• Torrential rains and floods in other areas of the continent.

The economic impact

Extreme weather hits the economy directly: food prices rise, energy becomes more expensive when reservoirs fall, and reconstruction costs grow after floods. For Caribbean and Central American countries, early preparation is the cheapest tool against the phenomenon.

The key figure

“Very strong.” The forecast rating keeping governments, farmers and consumers across the region on alert.