Yucatán is currently experiencing an unprecedented drought that has been affecting various sectors of agriculture, including citrus farmers, beekeepers, horticulturists, and corn producers. The lack of rainfall over the past two decades has resulted in a severe water shortage, causing significant losses to crops and livestock.
According to Freddy Domínguez Aké, president of the Union of Fruit Growers of the Mayab, the situation is desperate in the southern cone of Yucatán due to the intense drought. The lack of precipitation has led to a significant loss of horticultural products, as crops cannot develop properly in such dry soil.
The production of honey has also been severely affected, with beekeepers struggling to maintain their businesses. Moreover, corn producers are facing difficulties due to the lack of necessary rainfall, which is putting their harvests at risk.
Furthermore, the drought is not only affecting the economy but also the food security of the region, which relies heavily on these crops. “The farmers in the southern cone are in a critical situation and urge authorities to take measures to mitigate the effects of this drought and provide them with the necessary support to face this difficult situation,” said Domínguez Aké.
The extension of the fire season is another consequence of the prolonged drought. Due to the dry conditions, fires have been spreading rapidly, causing significant damage to crops and forests.
According to Jesús Enrique Alcocer Basto, coordinator of Civil Protection in Yucatán, the 2024 Fire Season has ended, but the fires are still ongoing due to the dry field conditions. Over 3,000 incidents of fire were reported during the critical period, including small brushfires and forest fires.
The situation is expected to continue as long as the drought persists, with no significant rainfall in sight. The authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions to prevent further damage.
