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El Niño rains trigger record Atacama violet bloom

By Drooid · Sep 23, 2026, 10:48 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Pizarro Reports Blooming

César Pizarro of CONAF says El Niño rains triggered violet and white flowers in the Atacama.
Rainfall exceeded 180 mm in places, a record, Pizarro reports.
CONAF estimates 15,000 ha will be flower-covered, peaking in October.
Insects, birds, reptiles and mammals are thriving, enhancing pollination and soil health.
Tourists are advised to stay on paths and keep pets away to protect the area.

Summary

Tanzania Authority Issues Alert

Tanzania Meteorological Authority warned the October–December 2026 Vuli season will be strongly influenced by El Niño.
The government estimates about Sh730 billion may be needed to address potential El Niño impacts across sectors.
A 2023–24 audit recorded 155 deaths and over 200,000 people affected by floods.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba convened a multi-agency meeting on September 16 to plan school rain preparedness.

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Pizarro Reports Blooming

César Pizarro of CONAF says El Niño rains triggered violet and white flowers in the Atacama.
Rainfall exceeded 180 mm in places, a record, Pizarro reports.
CONAF estimates 15,000 ha will be flower-covered, peaking in October.
Insects, birds, reptiles and mammals are thriving, enhancing pollination and soil health.
Tourists are advised to stay on paths and keep pets away to protect the area.

1 / 2