Argentina: Adverse winter weather forecast across western and south-central regions through at least June 22

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of western and south-central Argentina through at least June 22. Heavy snowfall is possible in elevated parts of the region and strong winds are likely across much of the affected area. Rainfall is possible in some lower-elevated areas. 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 June 20:

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

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and northern Chubut and western and west-central Rio Negro provinces.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of southern and eastern Chubut and southeastern Rio Negro provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of west-central Chubut, southern and western La Pampa, southern and western Mendoza, eastern and southern Neuquen, southeastern San Juan, and much of San Luis provinces.

Further orange snowfall and yellow snowfall and strong wind warnings are in place across parts of the affected area June 21 and yellow warnings June 22. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages may occur throughout the affected area.

The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are especially likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds will threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected areas. As a precaution, mountain passes and tunnels will likely be closed during periods of intense snowfall. The disruptive weather will probably cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions.