South American people suffer from record drought

A severe drought is raging in southern South America due to months of poor rain combined with high temperatures.

Uruguay is suffering its worst drought in 74 years. The country declared a state of emergency in the capital Montevideo, home to about 2 million people, and surrounding areas earlier this week due to water shortages. Two reservoirs – the main water supply for the areas – have almost dried up. Many residents are rushing to buy bottled water.

Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou pledged that the government would do its utmost to ensure clean water supplies for its people and urgently build a new reservoir.

Drought is also taking a heavy toll on neighboring Argentina, with wheat and soybean production in Argentina, one of the world’s top wheat exporters, continuing to decline sharply.

This shortage of agricultural products has contributed to the devaluation of the peso, which, combined with inflation, rose in May to an annual rate of 114%, affecting the lives of many Argentines.

A major factor believed to be behind the severe drought and low rainfall is that South America is currently experiencing a third consecutive La Nina event. The region is also experiencing severe heat waves, with climate change increasing their frequency, intensity and duration.