Un storm with intense thunderstorms and hail Storm Córdoba province, Argentina, struck again, leaving streets flooded, streams overflowing, and large events suspended for safety reasons. The heavy rainfall, concentrated in just a few hours, and the hailstorm caused problems in both urban areas and popular tourist destinations.
Provincial and municipal authorities activated various emergency protocols for rising rivers and fords, while the National Meteorological Service (SMN) and the Hydrometeorological Observatory of Córdoba (OHMC) They issued severe storm warningsStrong gusts of wind and possible hail were also reported. At the same time, a comprehensive list of recommendations for residents and visitors was circulated, with the aim of minimizing risks on roads and in areas near waterways.
Impassable streets, hail, and overflowing streams
The most critical episode occurred in the mountain corridor, where in towns such as Tanti, Mallín, Villa Carlos Paz or Cruz del Eje Very heavy rainfall was recorded in short periods. In Tanti, for example, the local stream experienced a extraordinary flooding after 48,4 millimeters of rain fell in just three hours, according to data from the Provincial Hydrometeorological Observatory.
The force of the water transformed the usual summer landscape: Cut-off fords, overflowing riverbeds, and surprised tourists trying to take shelter from the downpour. The heavy rain was compounded by hail fall in various sectors, especially in areas of Cruz del Eje and in the town of Soto Villa, where large rock cores were reported that forced the traffic to stop for a few minutes.
Given the dangerous nature of the phenomenon, the municipality of Tanti ordered the Preventative closure of fords over the Tanti, Las Mojarras and Cristal streamsas well as some crossings over the Las Salinas stream. These measures aim to prevent drivers from attempting to cross waterways with strong currents, one of the most dangerous situations during storms of this type.
La Police in Córdoba urged drivers to take extra precautions on the roads.Drive slowly and follow the instructions of road safety personnel. Special emphasis was placed on not crossing flooded areas or waterlogged fords, due to the risk of vehicles and people being swept away.
Jesús María: Festival suspended again due to bad weather
The impact of the storm was not limited to infrastructure and the road network. One of the episodes that had the greatest impact was the Another night's cancellation of the Jesús María Festival, one of the most renowned folkloric and horse-breaking events in the country, which was already suffering from adverse weather during this edition.
The organization officially announced the decision around 20 pmWhen the advance of a new storm front over the region was confirmed, Juan López, president of the festival committee, confirmed in a press conference that it was a strictly preventative measure. “Based on the forecast, we have had to make the decision to suspend today's session; it is a measure that pains us, but we must think about everyone's safety.”he said.
This cancelled night adds to the cancellation of the opening day, which occurred six days earlier due to similar weather conditions. Thus, the current edition of the festival has already experienced two interruptions due to severe storms and risks to the public, artists, and staff working on the grounds.
The affected event was rescheduled for the Monday January 19, a day on which artists such as Sergio Galleguillo, La LBC with Euge Quevedo and Damián CórdobaThe organization emphasized that the changes are being made prioritizing safety and trying to preserve as much of the original grid as possible.
This concatenation of suspensions illustrates how the Storm with hail and heavy rain in Córdoba It not only causes material damage and road closures, but also directly affects the tourist season and cultural events that depend on good weather to be able to develop normally.
Weather alerts and forecasts: what's coming for Córdoba
El National Meteorological Service (SMN) Several alerts remain in effect for the region due to persistent conditions favorable for severe storms and hail. A [specific alert/warning] is in place for northern Córdoba. yellow alert, which is expected to expand west and south across the province in the coming days, reaching a much wider area.
According to the agency, the Storms will be accompanied by intense electrical activity, gusts of wind, occasional hail, and heavy rainfall in short periods.In areas under yellow alert, accumulated rainfall is expected to be between 40 and 70 mmwith gusts that could reach the 70 km/h, especially during the morning and afternoon hours, depending on the specific location.
Furthermore, a Orange alert for nearby areas such as almost all of San Luis and the central-eastern Mendozawhere strong to severe storms are anticipated, with accumulations of between 60 and 100 mmgusts that could exceed 90 km/h and a greater risk of temporary flooding. Although these areas are outside the city of Córdoba, they are part of the same weather system that is affecting much of central and northern Argentina.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Hydrometeorological Observatory (OHMC) informed the Municipality of Córdoba about a significant weather changeAccording to the report, starting from the median of Wednesday a high probability is expected sudden storms and downpoursLocally strong, with periods of temporary improvement. The agency does not rule out more intense episodes in different parts of the territory.
The predicted phenomenon could be associated with strong gusts of wind, hail, intense electrical activity and heavy rain in short intervals. By Thursday morning, the arrival of a cold front with wind shift to the south It would maintain a similar scenario, prolonging the instability for at least a few more hours.
Safety recommendations for residents and tourists
Given this context of storm with hail, flash floods and strong windsAuthorities are reiterating a set of basic recommendations to reduce risks. The National Meteorological Service (SMN), the Córdoba Police, and municipal agencies agree in urging the public to avoid unnecessary exposure to bad weather and to stay informed through official channels.
Among the main measures, the slogan of avoid unnecessary travel During the hours of the most intense storms, especially on mountain roads and paths where fords tend to react quickly to the rain. The importance of Do not drive through flooded streetsbecause the water level can hide wells, strong currents, or elements swept away by the flood.
In the domestic sphere, it is recommended Don't put out the trash and clean drains and sinks Before storms arrive, to facilitate water runoff. It is also suggested to remove or secure objects that could be blown away by the wind, such as flowerpots, outdoor furniture, or portable signs, which can become projectiles in strong gusts.
Another key indication is Unplug appliances and cut off the power supply If water enters the home, take precautions to prevent short circuits or electrical hazards. If you are outside when the storm hits, authorities advise... Seek immediate shelter in a building, house, or enclosed vehicle.avoiding standing under trees, cables, or structures that could fall.
During episodes of hail and thunderstorms, emphasis is also placed on close and stay away from doors and windowsas well as avoiding tampering with electrical plugs or appliances connected to the grid. For residents living near riverbeds or in low-lying areas, special attention is advised to official reports and any preventive evacuation order due to the risk of flash floods.
The latest storm with Heavy rain, lightning and hail in Córdoba It once again highlights the region's vulnerability to severe weather events, but also the importance of prevention: closing fords in a timely manner, suspending mass events and complying with official recommendations can make all the difference in avoiding major damage and protecting the lives of residents and tourists.
