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Climate & Environment
31 March 2025

Orange Alert Issued For Strong Storms Across Argentina

Severe weather warnings extend across multiple provinces as intense storms approach the region.

The Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) has issued an orange alert for strong storms, effective Sunday, March 30, 2025, covering a significant portion of Buenos Aires province and extending to several other regions across Argentina. This alert indicates that severe weather conditions are expected, including intense rainfall, gusty winds, and potential hail.

According to the SMN, Arrecifes and its surrounding areas are particularly highlighted as focal points for this meteorological phenomenon. The forecast predicts that heavy rains will begin in the afternoon, coinciding with a warm climate that could feel as hot as 31°C. Residents are advised to prepare for sudden downpours that can lead to rapid accumulation of water, electrical activity, and strong gusts of wind throughout the day.

As the day progresses, the storm conditions are expected to escalate, with the situation continuing into the early hours of Monday, March 31, 2025. The forecast also suggests a marked drop in temperature, transforming the climate into a cooler and sunnier day by morning.

This weekend's weather disruptions are not limited to Buenos Aires. The SMN has also maintained warnings for intense rains in much of the country, affecting provinces such as Córdoba, Santa Fe, Entre Ríos, La Rioja, San Juan, and Santiago del Estero. An orange alert for storms is particularly significant in Córdoba, where conditions deteriorated after 7 PM on Sunday, leading to heavy winds and rain.

In the southern region of Santa Fe, an unprecedented storm has already caused considerable damage, impacting cities like Rosario and its neighboring areas. The SMN has issued specific forecasts for various regions, warning of intense rainfall ranging from 30 to 70 mm, with wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h.

In light of these warnings, the SMN has provided crucial safety recommendations to the public. Citizens are advised to avoid outdoor activities, refrain from discarding waste that could obstruct drainage systems, and steer clear of coastal and riverbank areas. It is also recommended to stay updated on official announcements and to prepare an emergency backpack containing essential items such as a flashlight, radio, personal documents, and a mobile phone.

With the potential for severe weather events, including flash floods and disruptions to daily life, local authorities are on high alert. In recent days, regions like Santa Fe and Córdoba have already reported incidents of roof collapses and evacuations due to adverse weather conditions.

The SMN has categorized the alerts into yellow and orange levels, indicating varying degrees of potential danger. Provinces under orange alert include Córdoba for storms and wind, Buenos Aires for storms, and others like Catamarca, La Pampa, and Santa Fe for various storm-related concerns.

In Córdoba, the orange alert for storm and wind is expected to take effect in the afternoon and continue into the night. The southern and central parts of the province will see these alerts starting in the afternoon, while the capital will experience a yellow alert for storms earlier in the day, escalating to an orange alert by nightfall.

During the afternoon, residents can expect rain and storms, some of which may be severe. The SMN warns of heavy rainfall in short bursts, strong gusts of wind exceeding 70 km/h, hail, and frequent electrical activity, with expected rainfall totals between 15 and 30 mm. By night, the forecast indicates stronger storms, with rainfall accumulations possibly reaching between 30 and 70 mm, accompanied by very intense gusts exceeding 100 km/h.

Wind speeds in the affected areas are predicted to range from 50 to 70 km/h, with gusts potentially surpassing 90 km/h. The SMN emphasizes that these weather phenomena pose a serious risk to life, property, and the environment.

Authorities are urging the public to seek shelter away from trees and power lines that could fall during the storm. It is crucial to find a safe indoor location and to have an emergency plan in place, especially for those living in areas prone to flooding.

As the storms approach, the SMN continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to adhere to safety guidelines to minimize risks associated with these severe weather conditions.

In summary, the weather forecast for March 30, 2025, indicates a significant threat from strong storms across Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires and Córdoba. With the potential for heavy rain, strong winds, and hail, the situation calls for vigilance and preparedness among the affected populations.