The province of Misiones has reinforced its contingency strategy due to the imminent arrival of the El Niño phenomenon. This effort focuses on the Uruguay River basin, a region historically vulnerable to flooding. Enrique Parra, Undersecretary of Civil Prevention, emphasized the importance of constant monitoring of hydrological conditions to provide early warnings.
El Niño and its impact on the Uruguay River basin
The localities along the Uruguay River basin are being prioritized in preventive measures, recalling episodes of severe floods in the past.
The plan includes preparing schools as evacuation centers, equipped with essential services to temporarily accommodate affected families. According to Parra, “the goal is to have everything organized before an emergency occurs.”
Climate forecasts suggest that rainfall could increase significantly, doubling or tripling normal levels in the coming months. This makes the Uruguay River a crucial focus of attention for provincial agencies, due to the rapid increase in its flow caused by rains both in southern Brazil and northeastern Argentina.
Additionally, the plan includes logistics to ensure the availability of mattresses, food, drinking water, hygiene kits, and medical services at facilities designated as evacuation centers.
Misiones’ commitment is clear: to prepare effectively to mitigate the adverse effects of El Niño in its territory, thus protecting the safety of its inhabitants against climatic threats.
