The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has issued recommendations for the agricultural sector in response to a significant drop in temperatures across several regions of Guatemala. The advice comes from MAGA’s Strategic Information Center, which analyzed weekly agroclimatic data provided by the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh).
According to MAGA, temperature monitoring is being conducted in 62 municipalities. In areas within the departments of Quetzaltenango, Totonicapán, Huehuetenango, San Marcos, Quiché and Chimaltenango—where staple crops such as maize and beans are grown alongside coffee, vegetables and pasture—temperatures are expected to fall below five degrees Celsius.
The analysis also indicates that temperatures will continue to decrease in western regions. Soil moisture is projected to decline as well, creating dry conditions in southern and central parts of the country. Accelerated winds have been reported in Chiquimula, Zacapa, Guatemala and Jutiapa.
To help farmers protect their crops during this period of cold weather, MAGA recommends maintaining crop residues or using live cover to shield soil; covering sensitive plants with plastic tunnels or mesh; adding well-decomposed manure compost; and irrigating during times of lower evaporation—preferably early morning or late afternoon.
For livestock producers, the ministry advises providing suitable shelters for animals against cold temperatures. Good ventilation should be ensured; for poultry and pigs, heat lamps or other supplemental heating sources are recommended. For horses, extending warm-up and cool-down periods before and after work is suggested.
"MAGA reiterates its commitment to provide timely information and technical recommendations to reduce climate impacts and strengthen the resilience of the country's producers," stated the ministry.
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