Ref: OCHA/GVA - 2000/0029
Uruguay - Drought
OCHA Situation Report No. 1
24 February 2000

Disaster

Uruguay is in a temperate climate zone, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Normally rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The country has been frequently affected by floods, particularly in 1998, 1991-93 and in 1986.

However, since mid-1999, persistent drought has been causing serious water shortage and forest fires.

Affected area

The northern region

Extreme drought: Departments of Artigas, Salto, Paysandú, Río Negro and Cerro Largo.