Paraguay Warns of Frost, Advises Farmers on Crop Protection

Paraguay's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) has warned of impending frost that could impact agricultural production across the Oriental Region and the Bajo Chaco. The alert highlights specific departments, including Itapúa, Ñeembucú, and Misiones, as most vulnerable to the cold snap, particularly during the early morning hours between 5 and 6 a.m.

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When we talk about cold, the South, Southeast, and Southwest areas are the most affected by low temperatures; as we move North, the impact tends to decrease.

Édgar Mayeregger, MAG's Risk Management Coordinator, clarified that while winter conditions typically bring higher humidity, the risk of low temperatures remains significant. He noted that southern and southwestern areas are generally more susceptible to cold than northern regions.

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The most dangerous times are concentrated in the early morning, specifically between 05:00 and 06:00, when temperatures reach their most critical point.

The MAG has identified several crops at high risk, including tomatoes, peppers, chia, sugarcane, cassava, and strawberries. To mitigate potential losses, the ministry urges producers to employ protective strategies. These include using irrigation systems to raise soil and plant temperatures, opting for climate-resilient crop varieties, and carefully planning planting schedules to avoid frost-prone low-lying areas.

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Using irrigation as a method of frost control to raise the temperature of the soil and plants.

While a minor frost event was recorded last month, the MAG characterizes the current warning as a "normal" winter phenomenon. The ministry will continue to monitor meteorological reports and provide updates, with technical vigilance expected to remain high through Thursday.

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Prioritize the use of species adapted to the climatic conditions of the region.