2023-08-23 11:41:50
The drought facing Uruguay – the worst in almost a century – is causing a dramatic deterioration in the quality of agua, with effects in homes, offices and factories. The liquid that comes out of the faucets is still too salty, even toxic to some plants and fish.
The crisis is part of a regional drought that is now in its third year and that -in Artigas’ lands- almost emptied the available reserves.
Uruguay on alert for the water crisis
Three months ago, the shortage in departments like Montevideo y cannelloni was so pressing that the government began to incorporate saline water from the Silver river to a supply system that reaches two million people, 60% of the population. Despite subsequent treatments, sodium levels exceeded those allowed by the World Health Organization.
The drought also causes serious headaches for scientists. Modified water destroys basic equipment in laboratories, such as filters and stills. Repairs can take up to five months, delaying the progress of crucial investigations, for example, into the Chagas disease.
They found levels of natural radiation higher than the world average in a spa in Uruguay
“We ran out of spare parts”, he was honest before the magazine Science a representative of one of the largest laboratory equipment companies.
Although the quality of the water has improved in recent months, salt concentrations are still above normal. Meanwhile, the researchers are thinking about how to avoid similar crises in the future.
What is behind the Uruguayan drought
One of the most important lessons is the need to improve communication with the governmentwho never warned them about supply changes or sought advice to minimize impacts.
The scientific community also knows that it will have to be better prepared for the next extreme events. If you don’t, the consequences will be unpredictable.
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