EL NIÑO’S IMPACT ON CROP PRODUCTION IN LATIN AMERICA - 25 August 1997
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A large-scale abnormal warming of the sea-surface of South American Pacific Ocean has been observed since March 1997. The phenomenon is referred to as El Niño and appears every 2 to 7 years, with different intensity and duration. The current El Niño appears to be exceptional in that it is the strongest ever recorded at this time of the year. Important changes in temperatures and precipitation patterns are often noticed during El Niño, having a positive or negative impact on agriculture and water resources. The overall changes in the ocean surface temperatures caused by El Niño also affect the natural conditions of marine ecosystems. It should be stressed, however, that no immediate association can be established between El Niño and agricultural production changes. The previous strongest El Niño event, in 1982/83, resulted in severe flooding and drought in several parts of the world, as well as the decline of a number of fish stocks, and reportedly caused over U.S.$ 10 billion in wea ther-related damages. While it is difficult to forecast the impact of El Niño in specific areas, it is necessary to follow its development and take preventive action against its possible negative impact on agriculture.