Argentina: Adverse winter weather forecast across western regions through at least May 21

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of western Argentina through at least May 21. Heavy snowfall is possible in elevated parts of the region and strong winds are likely across much of the affected area. Transport disruptions are likely in the region due to the adverse weather, especially in mountainous areas due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The Argentinian National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area May 20:

• Orange heavy snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of southwestern and western Mendoza and northwestern and western Neuquen provinces.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Parts of northwestern Mendoza and southwestern Neuquen provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of western Catamarca, northwestern La Rioja, northwestern and western Mendoza, and northwestern, southwestern, and western San Juan provinces.

Further orange snowfall and yellow snowfall and strong wind warnings are in place across parts of the affected area May 21. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

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.

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.