When does the cannula begin in Guatemala?

Before the heat wave that currently affects the national territory and the backwardness at the beginning of the rainy season, the question has begun to emerge among the citizenship: when does the cannula begin in Guatemala?

According to the projections of the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh), the beginning of the cannula for this year 2025 is planned for early July, possibly on the 15th or even before.

The cannula is expected not to be as prolonged as in previous years, according to the data provided by experts during the Climate Forum and Hydrological Forum of Central America, carried out in Guatemala City in April. This was stated by César George, a meteorologist at Insivumeh, who also indicated that, at the time, the corresponding information will be provided to the population, according to the climatic perspectives on the arrival of the canicle to the country.

Paris Rivera, expert of the Meteorology Unit of the Mariano Gálvez University, points out that currently the country presents neutral conditions associated with the El Niño phenomenon. It also ensures that the decrease in rainfall during July and August, known as a cannula, could extend more than usual, with fragmented days without rainfall throughout the national territory.

Rivera clarifies that, in spite of these projections, it is still premature to certainly forecast the conditions of the cannula, since the most accurate climatic models are made with a month or less in advance, due precisely to the influence of El Niño. However, the above constitutes a general perspective.

What is the cannula?

César George, of Insivumeh, explains that the cannula is a phenomenon that occurs during the rainy season, after the first rain maximum in June. According to weather, the rainiest months in Guatemala are June and September. After a June with abundant rainfall, rain usually decreases in July, sometimes presenting high temperatures in the country.

However, George does not consider that this year the cannula is very long. It is expected to manifest in the first half of July. “I would think that the cannula could last about ten or twenty days; but, I insist, it is still very soon to talk about deadlines,” he said.

It should be remembered that the cannula is a climate event that affects the entire Central American region. It is a particularly significant period for farmers, who must take precautions, since it can compromise crops and the production of basic vegetables and grains, says Rivera expert of weather unit of the Mariano Gálvez University.

Conred recommendations

Although Insivumeh projects the beginning of the cannula around July 15, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) has already issued recommendations to avoid losses in crops, according to Juan Laureano, spokesman for the entity.

Since this phenomenon is characterized by high temperatures, air warming, clear skies and decrease in rain, the Conred suggests:

• Dry grass on low humidity, to facilitate its storage and use.
• Manage weeds before flowing, chopping them and drying them to incorporate them into the soil as organic matter.
• Control wind erosion (by wind) by complementary irrigation, especially in low moisture soils and clay texture.
• Apply fertilizers only if a good rain distribution is anticipated, to avoid crop damage.

In addition, he recommends the general population:

• Use sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Consume fresh food, vegetables and fruits.
• Eating enough water to prevent dehydration.
• Go to medical services in case of heat coup fever.

High temperatures

According to experts, the cannula marks the transition between the first and second phase of the rainy season. Therefore, it is important to be attentive to its development and the possible consequences in agriculture and health. During this dry period, temperatures could reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, mainly in the department of Zacapa and in the dry corridor, regions most vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.