South American people suffer from record drought

A severe drought is gripping southern South America, brought on by 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 Montevideo, the capital of about 2 million people, and surrounding areas earlier this week due to water shortages. Two reservoirs – the main water supply for the areas mentioned above – have almost dried up. Many residents are rushing to buy bottled water.

Global warming.

Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou pledged that the government would do its utmost to ensure clean water supply for the 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 fall 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 key factor believed to be behind the severe drought and low rainfall is that South America is now experiencing a third consecutive La Nina event. The region is also experiencing severe heatwaves, with climate change increasing their frequency, intensity and duration.

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