Uruguay braces for Santa Rosa storm with heavy rain and strong winds

Uruguay is preparing for significant stormy weather as the Instituto Uruguayo de Meteorología (Inumet) issued a special warning for "strong and very strong storms." The inclement weather, occurring around the traditional Santa Rosa storm period, is expected to begin early Thursday.

A cold front will move in from the southwest of the country during the early morning hours of Thursday. Inumet forecasts strong storms primarily in the central and eastern parts of Uruguay. By Thursday afternoon, this weather system is predicted to shift northeastward, lingering in the northern and eastern areas until Friday afternoon.

During the storm's development, residents can expect "intermittently very strong storms and abundant rainfall." The institute anticipates precipitation totals between 40 and 60 mm in 24 hours, with potential for higher amounts, particularly in the northeast and east. Additionally, areas experiencing storms may encounter strong wind gusts, hail, and intense electrical activity.