El Salvador combats El Niño with drones and improved seeds

El Niño has officially settled over El Salvador since June 23, bringing higher temperatures and reduced rainfall, while the government deploys agricultural drones and improved seeds to mitigate the impact on crops.

El Niño's impact

The Ministry of Environment (MARN) confirmed that El Salvador is under El Niño's influence, expecting less rain, more heat, and more dry days, especially in the eastern and coastal zones Source: EFE. The phenomenon overlaps with the canícula, a period of reduced rainfall, potentially leading to drought from mild (5–10 consecutive dry days) to severe (over 16 days) Source: Infobae. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) forecasts a strong El Niño episode by July–September, with sea surface temperature anomalies exceeding 2°C Source: Infobae. The country recently endured a 12-day heat wave with temperatures above 40°C, breaking records Source: EFE.

Adaptation measures

In response, El Salvador is using agricultural drones and improved seeds to boost planting before the worst effects arrive Source: CNN. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the upcoming harvest. The reduction in rainfall during the main planting season has already cut areas sown with corn and beans Source: Infobae. The region's Corredor Seco—already facing food insecurity—is under scrutiny, with FAO and WFP listing it among global hunger hotspots needing urgent attention Source: Infobae.

The combination of immediate climate stress and technological adaptation underscores the challenge for Central America's food security.