The meteorological summer of 2025 in Chile will be defined by extreme weather conditions affecting various regions of the country. Higher-than-usual temperatures are presenting new challenges for harvest and post-harvest periods in agriculture, primarily in irrigation management and heatwave events.
Regions most impacted by the heat
Projections from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) indicate that December 2024 will be warmer than usual in mountain regions of the north, center, south, and Patagonia. In the Aysén Region, temperatures could exceed the average by more than 1.5 °C, primarily affecting localities such as Coyhaique (Meteored).
The heat will continue in January and February 2025, especially in the interior regions of Biobío and La Araucanía, where extreme events with temperatures exceeding 34 °C are expected. In contrast, the coasts of Atacama and Antofagasta might experience average or even below-average temperatures for the season.
Rainfall deficit in the south
The lack of rain will be another significant feature of the summer 2025. Projections indicate that the Chilean highlands might receive slightly above-normal amounts, while regions between Biobío and Magallanes will face significant deficits. This situation will be more acute in Los Lagos and Aysén, where frontal systems will be blocked by the presence of warm and stable air masses.
Impact of La Niña on the meteorological summer of 2025
The La Niña phenomenon will be a determining factor, with a probability of over 60% of persisting during the summer. This event, associated with the cooling of Pacific waters, will intensify dry and warm conditions for most of the Chilean territory.
The combination of extreme heat and water scarcity will directly affect crops, increasing the need for highly efficient irrigation strategies.
Strategies
To mitigate the impact of these weather conditions, farmers can adopt the following measures:
Irrigation optimization: Implement technical irrigation system strategies that reduce water waste.
Climate monitoring: Use digital platforms to anticipate extreme events and adjust cultivation strategies.
Selection of resistant varieties: Opt for crops adapted to high temperatures and prolonged droughts.
Protect against heatwaves with a cooling system with low precipitation.
The summer of 2025 presents a new opportunity to implement innovative solutions in resource management, such as those proposed by our country's Agrotech ecosystem.
“Our ability to adapt to new climatic conditions will depend on our ability to integrate technology and knowledge in agriculture” (Via RedAgrícola).
Towards a more sustainable future
The projected conditions for summer 2025 highlight the need for a strategic approach in agricultural management. Integrating technological innovation, planning, and technical advice will help mitigate the effects of this season and move towards a resilient agricultural model in the face of climate change challenges.
The Chilean agricultural sector can lead this change with sustainable solutions that protect the environment and strengthen food security for future generations.
