Extreme snowstorm closes two Argentinian snow parks; Las Leñas resort opens more slopes

Mendoza's Andes are experiencing extreme snow, creating a mixed bag for winter tourism. While two snow parks along the international route 7 remain closed "until further notice" due to the severe weather, the renowned Las Leñas ski resort in the south is welcoming visitors.

Tourists eager for the winter season will have to wait at the closed parks, as the inclement weather is forecast to continue through the end of the month. Evacuation efforts were underway in some areas as the snow piled up.

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In the last few days we have received significant snowfall that gives us the possibility to continue opening vital sectors of the mountain, although the snowfall forecasts continue, we wanted to inform you that from Tuesday, July 21, the Neptuno and Minerva slopes will be enabled with the Caris chairlift to access both Minerva and Cenidor.

However, Las Leñas, one of Latin America's premier ski destinations, is already operational and preparing to expand its offerings. The resort confirmed that more slopes will be made available to skiers as weather and safety conditions permit. Specifically, the Neptuno and Minerva slopes, accessed by the Caris chairlift, are set to open on July 21, adding to the already operational Eros 1 and 2, Venus, Parque Infantil, and Parque Aventura areas.

Despite the dynamic snow forecasts, the resort is committed to progressively opening new mountain sectors. On Saturday, July 18, the base of Las Leñas recorded a temperature of -1°C, with the summit at -8.2°C and wind gusts between 20 and 30 km/h. The route to the resort is open but requires caution and mandatory snow chains.

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These openings are added to those that were already operational such as Eros 1 and 2, Venus, Parque Infantil and Parque aventura (for sleds). The snowfall forecasts remain very dynamic and vary from day to day, so, as snow, weather and safety conditions permit, we will progressively open new sectors of the mountain.