Drought Hits 78,000 Families as Bolivia Declares Emergency; Nino Intensifies, Threatens Severe Weather
Emergency response mobilized
Paz said the country faces serious risks from both drought and flooding, and called for cooperation among institutions. His decree allows additional rescue teams to be deployed. It also calls for coordination among national and regional authorities, the armed forces and police as Bolivia prepares for the weather impacts.
Drought and flood threats
Drought has affected at least 78,000 families in seven of Bolivia’s nine departments. Authorities have warned that the start of the rainy season could bring floods, flash floods and landslides.
Estimated global health toll
Researchers estimate unusually high temperatures associated with the current El Nino could cause around 451,000 excess deaths worldwide between June 2026 and February 2027. The report also begins listing weather changes linked to El Nino during the past month, but provides no further details.
Key points
- Paz declared a national emergency as El Nino intensifies.
- Drought has affected at least 78,000 families across seven departments.
- The decree authorizes additional rescue teams and calls for coordinated response.