Industry News
During the month of August, over 300 communities experienced a string of severe weather emergencies after rare snowfall in Bolivia left part of the country panicked. Widespread, heavy snowfall and freezing-cold temperatures caused extreme issues for livestock, farming, transportation routes, and 26,000 families across five regions in the Andes and nearby valleys. Additionally, deteriorating road conditions left many foreign visitors stranded, and they ended up needing emergency rescue operations.
Typically, June through August sees very little precipitation in this high-altitude plateau region. However, high humidity paired with a polar cold front produced a wave of snow storms, and prolonged, unseasonably-cold temperatures. Because of this, multiple municipalities declared emergencies, and, eventually, the national government stepped in to help.
Several emergency rescues involving nearly 100 tourists were necessary due to the snow-covered roads near the Uyuni Salt Flats and Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve. Of those rescues, three U.S. citizens remained abandoned for 30 hours after vehicle issues, and 60 Italian residents were stuck inside of tour buses awaiting help, as reported by broadcaster Cadena 3. Also, the weather and storms caused one death in Oruro, where a collapsed tree killed an elderly woman.
This dry-season storm also had serious impacts on freight transportation, and even stopped operations at Uyuni’s La Joya Andina Airport. Dozens of truck drivers were unable to travel to major hubs such as La Cumbre and Confital, due to ice-covered roads. Authorities reported road closures towards La Paz, as well. In addition, officials reported that poor visibility caused the La Joya Andina Airport to completely suspend operations for a period of time.
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The cold, snowy weather has also created serious risks and problems for animals and wildlife of the region. Uyuni’s Risk Management Unit reported that approximately 80,000 llamas, sheep, alpaca, and cattle have been affected. Snow is covering many animals’ native grazing areas, causing them to face a major food shortage. Because of this, the elements and limited or no access to food or water have unfortunately caused some animals to perish.
As several municipalities and communities declared emergency situations, the national government of Bolivia had to step in and help. Coordinated with the armed forces, they distributed tools and food to help families in need, as well as veterinary supplies and animal feed. However, because this severe, dry-season weather system affected so many families and animals, people will likely feel its impact for months to come
