Argentina is facing a heat wave that is set to impact soybean and corn yields significantly, according to meteorologist German Heinzenknecht. The heat is expected to persist for several days before rains provide some relief by the weekend.
Key Highlights:
Current Weather Conditions:
Argentina’s primary agricultural region has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell since the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere’s summer last month.
Heinzenknecht forecasts temperatures soaring to 36°C (97°F) and even reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in certain areas.
Impact on Crops:
The heat wave, combined with a lack of rainfall since December 23, poses a serious threat to crop yields. Heinzenknecht described the situation as “an explosive combination.”
He stated, “I don’t think the crops will come through unscathed,” indicating that the expected rains may arrive too late to prevent damage.
Expected Rainfall:
A front of rain is predicted to hit on Friday, bringing 25 to 40 millimeters (1.6 inches) of precipitation to parts of the agricultural heartland.
However, Heinzenknecht cautioned that this rainfall will not be evenly distributed.
Production Estimates:
The Rosario grains exchange anticipates Argentina will produce between 53 million and 53.5 million metric tons of soy and 50 million to 53 million tons of corn this season.
Argentina is a key player in the global market, being the top exporter of soybean oil and meal, and the third-largest supplier of corn.
Future Outlook:
Heinzenknecht expressed optimism that the upcoming rains could signal a shift towards more normalized weather patterns, potentially leading to improved rainfall throughout February.
“The situation will become more normal as the summer progresses,” he noted, adding, “There is light at the end of the tunnel.”