Argentina issues orange and yellow alerts for extreme cold, winds, and snow

Argentina faces a severe weather onslaught as the National Meteorological Service (SMN) issued orange and yellow alerts for extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and strong winds across multiple provinces on Wednesday, August 12. The adverse conditions are expected to continue a week marked by significant temperature drops nationwide.

The most critical warnings, at orange alert level, target the mountainous regions of San Juan, La Rioja, and Catamarca. These areas are bracing for dangerous conditions, including persistent snowfall that could accumulate between 60 and 120 centimeters. Intense winds are also anticipated, reducing visibility and potentially causing "viento blanco" – a phenomenon of wind-driven snow.

Further south and west, yellow alerts are in place for snowfall in the cordilleras of San Juan and Mendoza, as well as in Río Negro and Chubut. These regions can expect 10 to 30 centimeters of snow, with a possibility of mixed rain and snow. Simultaneously, yellow alerts for strong winds, with gusts exceeding 100 km/h, affect Catamarca, Salta, and Jujuy.

Adding to the severe weather, yellow alerts for extreme cold have been issued for parts of Jujuy, La Rioja, San Luis, and Santa Cruz. Temperatures in these areas are predicted to be dangerous, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. The SMN advises residents to follow local authorities' guidance, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautions against the cold and potential carbon monoxide buildup in homes.