COUNTRY:  BRAZIL.

Governments across Latin America are increasing preparations for the strengthening El Niño climate phenomenon, which is expected to bring severe weather disruptions including droughts, floods, heatwaves, and other climate-related challenges in the coming months. Countries are activating emergency plans, mobilising response teams, and strengthening critical systems such as water management, energy supply, agriculture, and transport infrastructure to reduce the potential impact of extreme weather conditions.

Several countries have introduced specific measures to prepare for the changing climate risks. Colombia has expanded water monitoring and wildfire prevention efforts, while Ecuador has strengthened flood and landslide response plans. Costa Rica has implemented more than 200 preparedness actions focused on protecting water resources, renewable energy systems, and vulnerable communities. Panama has continued planning to protect water supplies essential to the Panama Canal, while Brazil and Peru have enhanced climate monitoring, agricultural preparations, and disaster response systems.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has urged governments to use the preparation period effectively, noting that El Niño is already developing and requires proactive action. Experts warned that previous strong El Niño events caused major economic losses across the region by affecting food production, reducing water availability, increasing wildfire risks, and disrupting energy generation.

Photo: AP Photo / Andre Penner