A violent change in weather left intense hailstorms in the south of the province of Córdoba (Argentina) in the afternoon. Residents of Vicuña Mackenna and other towns shared images of stones the size of a golf ball while the rain poured down heavily.
Minutes before 16:00 p.m., the National Meteorological Service issued warnings for severe thunderstorms and occasional hail for the departments of General Roca, Juárez Celman, and Presidente Roque Sáenz Peña, effective almost immediately. alerts extended into the afternoon and evening, with the likelihood of new episodes on Friday.
Hailstorm in southern Córdoba
In Vicuña Mackenna (Río Cuarto department) and in Jovita, heavy rainfall with large hailThere was also hailstorm in Cañada Verde and Del Campillo, and damage to crops, vehicles, and roofs was reported from the impact of the stones.
The phenomenon advanced rapidly from the southwest, associated with a storm front which brought showers, frequent electrical activity, and gusts of wind. Within minutes, streets were flooded and traffic was complicated in several sections.
Testimonies collected in the area describe the hail as sudden and very loud, with stones that were compared to a golf ball. emergency services They recommended taking shelter and keeping vehicles protected from new convective cells.
In addition to southern Córdoba, bordering areas also recorded episodes of hailstorms, which confirms the extent of the storm system in the afternoon and provides context on Hail and frost in South America. The magnitude of the hailstorm It was reflected in numerous videos and photos distributed by citizens.
SMN alerts and forecasts
The national body maintains a current Orange alert for sectors of the south and southeast of the province due to strong or locally severe storms, and yellow alert for surrounding areas. Accumulations of 70 to 100 mm are expected in areas with an orange warning and 40 to 70 mm under yellow warnings, with higher values not ruled out in certain cases.
It is also warned gusts that could reach 100 km/h, abundant rainfall in short periods and hail. For the city of Córdoba, the highest probability of precipitation is concentrated between Thursday night and Friday afternoon.
The Municipality of Córdoba reported a possible episode with strong wind, showers and hail between the 21:00 and 02:00, which is why he asked citizens to take extreme precautions and follow official information channels.
Instability will persist on Saturday in the northern departments of the province and in Greater Córdoba, with thermal drop and abundant cloudiness after the front arrived.
Given this scenario, the National Meteorological Service (SMN) recommends protecting windows and roofs, sheltering vehicles indoors, avoiding shelter under trees, avoiding driving on flooded streets, and staying informed through official channels. In storm situations, a safe haven and advance planning make the difference.
The hailstorm that hit southern Córdoba caused material damage and raised concerns among residents, who are awaiting further storms under meteorological surveillance. current notices and changing conditions, authorities insist on prevention and closely monitoring official updates.