An intense polar cold wave is advancing over much of Argentina, causing below zero temperatures in areas where it was unthinkable. There are widespread frosts and snowfalls in several regions of the country.
The phenomenon, affecting a large part of the national territory since the weekend, triggered alerts from the National Meteorological Service (SMN) due to extreme low temperatures and adverse weather conditions.
Cold wave in Argentina: how long will the alerts last
The provinces most affected by this cold wave include Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, San Luis, San Juan, La Pampa, Río Negro, Neuquén and the south of Santa Fe.
In many of these areas, minimum temperatures dropped below -5 °C. While in sectors of Patagonia, even more extreme values were recorded.
The SMN issued yellow and orange alerts for extreme cold, and warned about the possible health impacts. Especially for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
In localities of Mendoza and San Juan, intense snowfalls were also reported, complicating traffic on routes and mountain roads.
Polar wave in Argentina: can it snow in Buenos Aires?
In Buenos Aires, the cold was strongly felt: the thermal sensation in some points of the Buenos Aires suburbs dropped to -3°C during the night.
Additionally, strong frosts occurred in rural and suburban areas, causing concern in agricultural sectors due to possible damage to sensitive crops.
During the weekend, there were unusual snowfalls in some provinces, such as San Juan, La Rioja, Córdoba, La Pampa, and Buenos Aires.
In Chubut, for example, the SMN issued a red alert at 6:30 p.m. on Monday for the center, north, and east of the Patagonian province.
Why did this polar cold wave arrive
This phenomenon is associated with the entry of a polar air mass from the south of the continent. This interacts with atmospheric stability conditions, favoring clear nights and very low minimum temperatures.
Classes were suspended in Mendoza and several provinces.
In addition, environmental specialists point out that these episodes of extreme cold are part of a greater climate variability, which could intensify with the advancement of climate change. It strongly alters traditional seasonal patterns.
Both the Ministry of Health and emergency agencies recommend dressing warmly, avoiding sudden temperature changes, and taking precautions with stoves or braziers.
It is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
When will the relief arrive
The relief will come towards the end of the week. According to the official forecast from the SMN, temperatures in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area (AMBA) will begin to rise gradually starting on Thursday, when the minimum will reach 4 degrees and the maximum 13°C.
