La empresa Iguazú Jungle anunció la suspensión de los paseos náuticos programados para el martes 10 de marzo debido a la pronounced drop in the Iguazú River. The flow has reduced to 673 m³/s, well below the usual average of 1,500 to 1,800 m³/s.
Although the terrestrial tourist circuits continue to operate normally, the decrease in flow directly affects navigability and forces adjustments to recreational activities.
Impact on the water system
The drop not only impacts tourism but could also complicate the raw water intake that supplies the Puerto Iguazú water treatment plant. Residents are already reporting shortages and low pressure in the distribution network.
According to the Argentine Naval Prefecture:
- In Comandante Andrésito, the river records a level of 0.32 m, compared to a normal level of 1 m.
- In Puerto Iguazú, the height is 7.90 m, when the usual is 13 m.
- The Paraná River marks 8.30 m, five meters below normal.
This situation could complicate water supply in several towns in Misiones if the trend continues.
Causes of the drop
The decrease in flow is mainly due to the lack of rainfall in the upper basin of the river, located in southern Brazil. This phenomenon directly impacts the volume of water feeding the falls of the Iguazú National Park.
Specialists explain that these variations are part of the natural behavior of the Iguazú River:
- In dry periods, levels can drop significantly.
- After intense rains, rapid rises may be recorded in a few days.
Effects on the Falls
The drop in flow translates into a lower volume of water in some secondary falls, exposing rocky areas that are normally covered. However, the Devil’s Throat and the main falls maintain their activity, preserving the natural attraction that distinguishes the Falls as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Outlook and monitoring
The authorities of the Iguazú National Park and water control agencies closely monitor the evolution of the flow. Although the attraction remains open to the public, the situation is evaluated daily to determine if the boat trips can be resumed.
The drop also raises concerns in the tourism sector, as boat trips are one of the most sought-after experiences by visitors. The continuation of this situation could impact the local economy, which largely depends on tourist flow.
For now, the Iguazú Falls remain open to the public as usual, although boat trips are suspended. The drop serves as a reminder of the dependence on tourism and potable water supply on the river’s water conditions, and the need to sustainably manage resources in a context of climate variability.
