In 2025, Latin America and the Caribbean faced unprecedented climate extremes. Heatwaves, floods, droughts, and hurricanes wreaked havoc, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Their report, State of the Climate in Latin America and the Caribbean 2025, highlights the urgent need for better climate resilience and emergency planning.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo noted that the signs of climate change have become “unmistakable.”
Record Heat Poses Health Risks
One shocking finding was the rise in extreme heat events. Many places saw temperatures soar above 40°C. For example:
52.7°C in Mexicali, Mexico — a national record
44°C in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
44.8°C in Mariscal Estigarribia, Paraguay
These recurring heatwaves have led to growing public health crises, especially among vulnerable groups. The report estimates about 13,000 heat-related deaths occur yearly in 17 countries in the region. However, experts believe the real number could be much higher due to underreporting. To tackle this, WMO officials stress the need for integrating climate data into public health systems.
Warming Trends on the Rise
Warming is accelerating. Between 1991 and 2025:
South America warmed by about 0.26°C per decade
Central America and the Caribbean warmed by 0.25°C per decade
Mexico saw the highest rate at 0.34°C per decade
This is the fastest warming trend since 1900. In 2025, the annual surface temperature ranked among the warmest ever recorded.
Increasing Floods and Droughts
Rainfall patterns have become erratic, leading to severe droughts followed by heavy rainfall. Areas most affected include:
- Central America
- Colombia
- Venezuela
- Southern Brazil
In 2025, floods impacted over 110,000 people in Peru and Ecuador and caused 83 deaths in Mexico. At the same time, droughts plagued other parts of the region, highlighting the unpredictable nature of weather patterns.
Glacier Loss Threatens Water Security
The WMO warns that melting glaciers in the Andes endanger water supplies for 90 million people. As glaciers retreat, they threaten:
- Drinking water
- Agriculture
- Hydropower
Recent studies indicate that glaciers in Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina are losing mass at alarming rates. This could lead to severe water shortages for rural communities.
Oceans Under Pressure
Marine conditions are worsening too. Rising ocean temperatures and acidity threaten coral reefs and fish stocks. In 2025, acidity levels hit record highs in parts of the Atlantic and Pacific. These changes impact coastal communities and fisheries critical for local economies.
Agriculture Facing Challenges
Extreme weather is also harming agricultural systems. Farmers are dealing with disrupted crops, reduced yields, and rising food insecurity. Experts warn that continued warming may drastically decrease agricultural output in the coming years.
Saulo emphasizes that climate information is crucial for protecting lives and livelihoods. Effective climate services can help farmers plan their crops, prepare health systems for heat waves, and strengthen disaster response.
In conclusion, while the risks from climate change in Latin America and the Caribbean are intensifying, better preparation and adaptation measures could mitigate future impacts. Strong actions now can save lives and reduce damage down the line.
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WMO, Climate Change, Latin America, Caribbean, Global Warming, Heatwaves, Floods, Drought, Hurricanes, Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica, Glacier Retreat, Sea Level Rise, Extreme Weather, Public Health
