Argentina: Heavy snowfall forces suspension of flight operations at Ushuaia-Malvinas Argentinas International Airport in Ushuaia Aug. 6

Event

Heavy snowfall has prompted the suspension of flight operations at Ushuaia-Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH) in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, as of Aug. 6. Authorities did not immediately indicate when normal flight operations would resume at the airport. Lingering delays and cancellations are possible even after flight operations resume as airport authorities work to clear passenger backlogs.

Argentina's National Meteorological Service (Servicio Meteorologico Nacional, SMN) had not issued any alerts for Ushuaia or Tierra del Fuego Province as of late Aug. 6, with the entire province remaining at the green alert level (i.e., the lowest level on a four-tier scale). However, the SMN has forecast that snowfall and winds of 51-59 kph (32-37 mph) would continue to impact Ushuaia until early Aug. 7. Winds of 42-50 kph (26-31 mph) are then forecast to impact Ushuaia until late Aug. 7. Strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow.

Gusty winds may also threaten to topple high-profile vehicles and cause sporadic power outages. Additionally, ground transport disruptions are possible in the region over the short term, including traffic and commercial trucking delays.

Advice

Reconfirm flight reservations if scheduled to travel via USH over the coming days. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas impacted by heavy snowfall. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Heed all official transport and security advisories.

Resources

Ushuaia-Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)