The arrival of winter in the Southern Cone has brought with it an important alert regarding the imminence of powerful cold waves. that will affect countries such as Uruguay, Argentina and a large part of central Chile. Weather forecasts point to a season with unusually low temperatures, severe frosts and, in some cases, even the possibility of snowfall where it is not usual.
Over the next few days, large polar air masses are on their way to the region., which will generate an extended period of below-normal temperatures and episodes of extreme cold, especially in the first half of July. Specialists warn that, unlike other winters, this cycle will be marked by intense bursts of cold air. which could last longer than usual.
Intense cold and possibility of snow in Uruguay and Buenos Aires
In Uruguay and central-eastern Argentina, forecasts predict the staggered arrival of two polar air masses. of Antarctic origin that will leave in their wake sharp drops in temperature and harsh winter conditions. In the case of Uruguay, weather models predict lows that could fall to -2 ºC in the north and values just above zero in the rest of the country. Thermal sensations could be even lower, especially at the end of the day and in the early morning.
Weather experts predict the coldest period will continue for the next two weeks., coinciding with school holidays and the first half of July, when the lowest temperatures of the year are usually recorded. The arrival of several very cold air masses is expected., capable of generating the first winter cold waves. In addition, in areas of the northern interior, frost will be recurrent and especially intense, with the probability of seeing snow at specific points from Buenos Aires and Uruguay, according to the latest models.
Meteorological authorities have warned about the possibility of black frosts in high-altitude areas, where the combination of strong winds and freezing temperatures can cause damage to crops and affect vegetationThe Uruguayan Meteorological Institute already forecasts extreme minimum temperatures for the next week, with records that will be the lowest observed in 2025 in many localities.
Pattern of cold waves and short rains in central Chile
In central Chile, winter also presents severe conditions.Climate researchers warn of an “extreme winter” characterized by alternating intense and short rains with prolonged periods of severe cold, clear skies, frost and fog banks. Following episodes of precipitation, temperatures are expected to drop to between -3 and -4 ºC., putting sensitive crops at risk and creating problems in both agricultural and urban areas.
Frost after rain particularly affects vegetables and greenhouse plants., and severe damage to plant tissue is warned of. Agroclimatology experts recommend that producers monitor the forecasts and take preventive measures, especially in July and August, when the most pronounced cold peaks usually occur.
Cities could also experience difficulties in evacuating accumulated water from sudden rains, increasing the risk of flooding in urban and rural areas.
Climate context: changes and extremes
This winter pattern with such powerful polar irruptions is not alien to the context of climate change.Although a progressive increase in average temperatures has been noted in recent decades, Antarctic cold masses continue to have a significant impact each winter. Some studies suggest that these events, although less frequent, may be more intense and abrupt.
Combining polar masses, possible snowfall, severe frost and heavy rains make the current winter season one of the most climatically demanding in recent years for South America.
