The advance of a major cold front marks the arrival of winter across much of the Southern Cone, bringing with it a noticeable drop in temperatures, rainfall of varying intensity, and weather conditions already being felt in several provinces and departments. According to national meteorological agencies, the presence of this system will cause a drastic change in the environment, affecting both large cities and rural areas.
Over the next few days, temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with minimum readings potentially reaching 0°C or even falling below that threshold in some areas. This weather event will also be accompanied by moderate to strong winds—with gusts of up to 90 km/h in some areas—intermittent rain, and, particularly in the mountainous provinces, snowfall and weather alerts for instability.
Affected regions and forecast details
According to the latest reports, Santa Cruz will begin the week with northerly winds and unseasonably warm weather, but the situation will change significantly starting Wednesday. The cold front is expected to remain until Friday, bringing rainfall of varying intensities and extending its influence over Andrés Ibáñez, the valleys, the Cordillera region, and the Chiquitania. Temperatures will range from lows of 4°C to highs that, despite the drop, could remain near 33°C in the warmest areas before the arrival of the cold air. Mostly cloudy skies and winds with gusts exceeding 60 km/h are also forecast for several locations.
In Misiones , heavy rain and high humidity are being reported, with localized flooding and persistent instability. The arrival of a cold front on Sunday is expected to bring a sharp drop in temperatures and the possibility of thunderstorms. On Monday, the minimum temperatures could fall as low as 4°C , and the wind chill will make it feel even colder. After the system passes, a brief improvement is expected, although the return of rain midweek cannot be ruled out. According to meteorological authorities, the combination of rain and cold air will intensify the feeling of cold in the region.
The alerts also extend to the province of Mendoza , where, after a mild weekend, a high of 13°C and a low of 2°C are forecast for Sunday . The National Meteorological Service is warning of snowfall in the high mountains and strong winds in areas such as Malargüe, San Rafael, and General Alvear. The Cristo Redentor International Pass , which connects to Chile, will remain closed due to the storm.
Changes in northern Argentina and Paraguay
In Salta , the cold front will bring a noticeable change starting Wednesday. According to local experts, lows of 7°C are expected at the beginning of the period, dropping to 2°C on Friday and over the weekend. Rain is possible at the start of the cold front, with skies clearing from cloudy to sunny as the week progresses. Experts urge everyone to take extra precautions, especially regarding warm clothing and safe heating for the most vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, in Paraguay , the Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology issued a special alert due to the arrival of minimum temperatures near 0°C between Monday and Tuesday, with a high probability of frost in various regions, especially the southeast and east of the country. In areas such as Asunción and departments like Ñeembucú, ParaguarÃ, and Caaguazú, the temperature could drop to around 0-3°C, while in other areas the minimum is expected to be between 4 and 6 degrees. The polar air mass could further accentuate the temperature drop.
Recommendations and precautions against the cold
Health and meteorological authorities in the affected countries are emphasizing the need to anticipate and prepare daily routines for this winter scenario. They recommend wearing appropriate clothing , especially during the early morning and evening hours, and paying particular attention to vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those living in precarious conditions. They also reiterate the importance of ventilating rooms and checking heating systems—especially combustion systems—to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
This cold front marks the beginning of a winter period that is expected to be intense in many regions. In addition to the drop in temperatures, rain, snow, and winds are expected, which will complicate daily life in both urban and rural areas. Closely following official forecasts and staying updated with local recommendations is key during these days to minimize risks and setbacks.