Cristo Redentor border crossing closed again due to extreme weather

Extreme weather conditions have forced the closure of the Cristo Redentor border crossing, the primary land route connecting Argentina and Chile. A new storm system bringing heavy snow and wind to the high mountain region prompted authorities to halt all vehicular traffic starting Monday afternoon.

This latest closure comes just a week after the border had reopened, following a prolonged 34-day shutdown during the winter months. The decision aims to prevent accidents and allow for road clearing, prioritizing safe transit. Currently, only private vehicles and tourists heading to nearby snow parks are permitted access, located about 20 kilometers from the border.

The reopening date for the crucial bi-oceanic corridor remains uncertain, particularly for cargo transport. Trucking associations in Mendoza have reported significant financial losses due to the repeated closures over the past month and a half. They are urging for a brief closure this time.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, with snowfall expected to continue until the end of the month. The decision to reopen will depend on the amount of snow and the operational capacity to clear the roads. In the meantime, hundreds of trucks that did not manage to cross before the closure are waiting in parking areas, facing further delays.