Overview
- Peru’s ENFEN moved to an official Coastal El Niño alert, projecting development from March through November 2026 with predominantly weak warming and a possible mid‑year peak to moderate in July.
- ENFEN forecasts above‑normal rainfall on the north coast from February to April, warns of moderate to heavy episodes in March–April, and expects Pacific‑slope rivers to run higher with potential sudden rises; the next bulletin is due 27 February.
- Argentina’s meteorological service issued red heat alerts for parts of Corrientes and Chaco with highs near 41°C, orange alerts for severe storms with frequent lightning, hail and gusts above 90 km/h in several provinces, and a return of showers for the Buenos Aires area on 19 February.
- In Córdoba province a yellow alert flags thunderstorms with electrical activity, hail and gusts up to 80 km/h, and police and provincial security officials advised residents to take precautions and use emergency contacts during severe weather.
- Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula remains very hot at 34–37°C, with a cold front expected around 22 February bringing a norte with coastal gusts of 65–75 km/h, elevated seas and moderate to heavy rains, while Spain’s Galicia faces rain and strong gusts near 70–75 km/h on 18–19 February.