Sur del Lago de Maracaibo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sur del Lago de Maracaibo
Sur del Lago
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Subregión
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View of Catatumbo lightning, Zulia
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Approximate extent of Sur del Lago
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| Country | Venezuela |
| Region | Zulia |
| Area | |
| • Total | 18,440 km2 (7,120 sq mi) |
| Population
(2012)
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| • Total | 624,177 |
| • Density | 33.849/km2 (87.669/sq mi) |
Sur del Lago de Maracaibo, also known as Sur del Lago (meaning South of Maracaibo Lake), is a special area in Venezuela. It is a subregion that includes parts of two states: Zulia and Mérida. This region is located south of the large Lake Maracaibo.
Several important towns are found here. These include Santa Barbara del Zulia, San Carlos del Zulia, and El Vigia. El Vigia is especially important as it is the main center for business and trade in the area.
Contents
What is the Sur del Lago Region?
The Sur del Lago region is made up of several local areas called municipalities. From the Zulia state, it includes Jesús María Semprún, Catatumbo, Colón, Francisco Javier Pulgar, and Sucre.
From the Mérida state, it includes Alberto Adriani, Obispo Ramos Lora, and the town of Palmarito from the Tulio Febres Cordero municipality.
Geography and Climate of Sur del Lago
This region covers a large area of about 18,440 square kilometers. It has a varied landscape, from flat plains to areas closer to mountains. The climate here is generally warm and humid.
The Famous Catatumbo Lightning
One of the most amazing natural wonders in the Sur del Lago region is the Catatumbo lightning. This is a unique weather event where lightning storms happen almost every night. It occurs where the Catatumbo River flows into Lake Maracaibo.
The lightning flashes are very frequent and can be seen from far away. Scientists believe it happens because of the special way warm and cold air currents mix in this area. It's a truly spectacular sight!
Economy and Life in the Region
The Sur del Lago region is very important for Venezuela's economy. It is known for its rich soil and good conditions for farming.
Main Economic Activities
- Agriculture: Farming is a major activity. People grow crops like bananas, plantains, and oil palm.
- Cattle Ranching: Raising cattle for meat and milk is also very common. This makes the region an important producer of food for the country.
- Oil Production: The area around Lake Maracaibo is rich in oil. Oil extraction is another key part of the economy, providing jobs and resources.
These activities help support the people living in the Sur del Lago region.
See also
- Lake Maracaibo
- Zulia
- Mérida state
