02 Aug 2023 | 10:48 AM UTC
Chile: Disruptions due to winter weather ongoing in Punta Arenas as of early Aug. 2
Winter weather causing disruptions in Punta Arenas, Chile, as of early Aug. 2. Overland transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Disruptions due to severe winter weather are ongoing in Punta Arenas as of early Aug. 2. The Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) has issued a warning stating that several roads in the city and surrounding areas have been made impassable by heavy snowfall and an emergency has been declared until further notice. Municipal authorities have stated that despite the deployment of municipal machinery during the early morning, the weather conditions affecting the city have not allowed normal vehicular traffic to be ensured on the city's main streets. Schools in the city have been suspended Aug. 2 and authorities are advising residents to avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve. There has been no confirmation of flight disruptions at Presidente Carlos Ibanez del Campo International Airport (PUQ) as of early Aug. 2; however, flight delays and cancelations are possible.
The Chilean Meteorological Directorate has issued yellow strong wind warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across the region through Aug. 3 and further snowfall, rainfall, sleet, and strong winds are forecast in Punta Arenas through at least Aug. 6. Further adverse weather in the coming days will likely contribute to additional disruptions to transport, business, and utilities in Punta Arenas.
In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely continue to cause ground transport disruptions in Punta Arenas over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected region as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in the region.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. 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. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
