The Meteorological Directorate of Chile seems to offer us no respite, through reports that minute by minute reveal what seems to be an open secret: the climate we have from north to south resembles winter much more than what we should have during the first week of May.
Chile is facing a series of extreme weather events extending from the far north to the southern zone, marking a year of significant challenges for the country's agriculture and infrastructure. This Thursday, the coldest day of the year has been recorded in Santiago, and conditions show no signs of immediate improvement. The DMC has reported a series of events that pose a risk to key crops such as table grapes, olives, avocados, and citrus fruits.
Current weather phenomena
The DMC has identified three main phenomena affecting various regions of the country: low pressure in the north, a cold anticyclonic regime in the central zone, and a frontal band in the south. In the north, the Arica and Parinacota region experiences occasional clear skies, while in Tarapacá and Antofagasta, strong winds and the possibility of thunderstorms in the mountains threaten to further complicate the situation.
Meanwhile, in the central zone, the situation is critical with frosts occurring from the Coquimbo to the Biobío regions, bringing temperatures to surprisingly low levels for the season, directly affecting agriculture. In Santiago, the temperature has dropped to 2°C, the lowest of 2024, indicating a meteorological winter onset that could have serious repercussions for agricultural production.
In the south and the austral zone, the situation is no less concerning. The frontal band between the regions of La Araucanía and Los Ríos brings fogs and precipitation, which could be beneficial for some crops but also represent a flood risk. Further south, in Magallanes, strong winds continue to challenge daily life and agricultural operations.
The La Niña outlook
The situation is complicated by the anticipated arrival of La Niña in the second half of the year, which could exacerbate the precipitation shortage in the central zone. La Niña, known for cooling Pacific temperatures and affecting global precipitation patterns, could deplete the already critical water reserves, endangering the viability of numerous agricultural operations that depend on regular irrigation.
In the face of these challenges, it is essential that Chilean producers and authorities be prepared to adapt their strategies and operations. Innovation in irrigation systems and frost control, such as those offered by Tierraverde, is more critical than ever. These technologies not only help mitigate the impact of frosts and optimize water use but also ensure the long-term sustainability of agriculture in regions affected by extreme climate changes. Adaptation and resilience will be key to navigating this uncertain climate and ensuring that the agricultural sector can face and overcome these challenges.
Via: Meteorological Directorate of Chile / La Tercera / Climate Reanalyzer
