El National Metereological Service maintains active alerts yellow level by Zonda wind in sectors of Cuyo. They are expected intense gustsVery dry conditions, sudden temperature increases and possible reductions in visibility, especially in pre-mountain areas.
The phenomenon will affect Mendoza and San Juan with a higher incidence in the pre-Andean region. In Mendoza, attention is focused on Malargüe, Uco Valley, Lujan de Cuyo and Las Heras; in San Juan, the greatest impacts are expected in Calingasta, Pocito, Rivadavia, Sarmiento, Ullum and the department of Zonda.
Areas and times subject to change
In Mendoza, episodes of Mild to moderate Zonda During the morning in the Southern mountain range and southern Malargüe (likely windows between 8 and 11 a.m.). In the afternoon, its influence towards the Greater Mendoza —including Potrerillos and Luján de Cuyo—, with the possibility of persisting until around 20:00.
For San Juan, the SMN yellow alert covers a main section from mid-afternoon until dawnwith the highest probability between 15:00 PM and the early hours of the following day. In addition to the pre-Andean areas (Calingasta, Pocito, Rivadavia, Sarmiento, Ullum and Zonda), the following are included July 9th, Albardón, Capital, Chimbas, Rawson and Santa LucÃa, as well as the lower areas of Pocito, Rivadavia and Sarmiento.
Intensity and expected effects
The SMN estimates sustained speeds from the Zonda wind between 30 and 45 km/h, with gusts that could reach 75 km/h in the most exposed sectors. This pattern, associated with Foehn effect, May cause low relative humidity, suspended dust and reduced visibility, in addition to a marked and sudden increase in temperature.
With this scenario, the fire risk The risk remains high in rural and pasture areas. Extreme caution is also advised while driving due to possible dust stormsespecially on mountain routes and access roads to pre-Andean valleys.
Storms and wind change after the Zonda
Following the Zonda event, the following is expected: south wind associated with a cold front, with initial gusts on the order of 45-50 km / hThis change may be accompanied by storms of varying intensity Towards the evening, with likely showers and a subsequent drop in temperature.
In parts of Mendoza, the storms could be locally intense. powerful, with frequent electrical activityoccasional hail and accumulated rainfall that, in general, would range between 20 and 40 mm (with the possibility of exceeding these values ​​occasionally in mountainous areas).
Departments and areas covered
In the province of MendozaThe warning repeatedly includes the foothills and nearby areas: Las Heras y Lujan de Cuyo, in addition to the southern part of the province (General Alvear, San Rafael, Malargüe) And the Uco Valley (Tunuyán, Tupungato and San Carlos), along with areas in the East (JunÃn and Rivadavia).
En San JuanThey include both pre-Andean zones and urban and valley areas: Calingasta, Little well, rivadavia, Sarmiento, Ullum, Zonda, plus 9 July, Albardón, Capital, Chimbas, rawson y Santa LucÃa.
Civil Protection Recommendations
Faced with an episode of Zonda windAuthorities are urging people to take extra precautions to protect themselves and prevent fires. It's advisable to plan your trips, secure your belongings, and stay informed through official channels.
- Pay attention Remove cables, branches or loose objects; remove items from balconies and rooftops.
- Close and secure doors and windows; avoid drafts inside the house.
- Drive carefully: maintain distance, reduce speed and drive with low beams.
- Do not take refuge under trees or unstable structures (signs, marquees, awnings).
- Have flashlights and charged batteries; anticipate occasional power outages.
- Avoid burning Do not throw cigarette butts in areas with dry vegetation.
- In case of smoke or fire, notify immediately: 911 (emergencies), 103 (Civil Protection), 100 (Fire Department).
Temperatures and sky conditions
Before the South enters, the following are expected: high maximums for that time in northern Cuyo. San Juan they could be around 31-33 ° C with mostly sky clearWhereas in Mendoza Values ​​are expected to be around 26 ° C with variable cloudiness.
During the afternoon, a wind rotation to the west in valley and foothills areas, remaining cracks Locally strong winds until nightfall. With the advance of the front, the southerly wind and possible storms They will tend to extend into the early hours of Saturday.
The Cuyo region faces a demanding day Due to Zonda winds and subsequent instability: it is advisable to heed official warnings, avoid risky behavior, and apply the recommendations Civil Protection until conditions improve.
