Bolivia (Cava): Frost destroys more than 50% of potato production

A severe frost recorded last Wednesday, October 22, in the municipality of Vacas, Arani province, Cochabamba department, caused the loss of more than 50% of potato production, severely affecting producers in at least two districts.

The mayor of Vacas, Edwin Coca, reported that municipal technicians are assessing the damage to determine the exact number of families affected by this weather phenomenon. "The frost has been very severe and has severely damaged potato crops. We are verifying the losses in the field to coordinate the appropriate assistance," the municipal official stated.

Coca also indicated that support has been requested from departmental and national authorities to provide immediate assistance to affected producers, as most depend exclusively on agriculture for their livelihood.

The community members expressed their concern, noting that the loss of their crops could lead to a local food and economic crisis, given that Vacas is one of the main potato-producing municipalities in the upper Cochabamba Valley.