El Niño 2026-2027: regional impacts and emergency responses

The 2026-2027 El Niño event is intensifying across the Americas, prompting emergency declarations and preparations. In Panama, the government declared a state of emergency on August 25 due to a rainfall deficit of up to 60% in some Pacific zones, with 11 watersheds under water stress Source: La República (CO). Meanwhile, Ecuador reported sea levels 40 cm above normal, approaching the devastating 1997-1998 levels, and recorded 14 coastal flooding events in mid-August Source: La Voz del Interior. Peru is preparing for up to 1.2 million people affected if the event reaches extraordinary intensity, with river cleaning and humanitarian aid as priorities Source: infobae. In Colombia, Fedegán reported losses of $47,000 million in livestock, with 9,865 animals dead and 2.2 million hectares affected Source: portafolioco. Mexico faces unprecedented heat risks, with UNAM researcher Jorge Zavala warning of temperatures that could exceed human tolerance limits Source: excelsiormx. Argentina is coordinating federal measures to mitigate flooding risks in the Litoral region Source: lavozar. Guatemala anticipates drought persisting into 2027, with rainfall deficits up to 51% in some areas Source: infobae. Sources agree on the event's strength but differ on specific impacts: while some emphasize drought, others highlight flooding, reflecting regional variability. The event is expected to last until at least early 2027, with a 100% probability of consolidation Source: elcolombiano.