The Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) of Argentina has issued urgent weather alerts across multiple provinces due to severe storm conditions expected to hit the country over the next 24 hours. Starting Monday evening, residents of regions including Santa Cruz, Jujuy, Salta, Chaco, Misiones, Corrientes, Tucumán, Santiago del Estero, Córdoba, Catamarca, and parts of northern Buenos Aires find themselves on high alert as forecasters predict pronounced turbulence.
According to the SMN, Buenos Aires' capital may experience southern winds gusting between 30 to 40 km/h, with potential spikes exceeding 70 km/h. More critically, storm conditions could lead to strong winds with gusts reaching as high as 90 km/h, coupled with significant hail, torrential rain, and intense electrical activity across these regions. "The area will be affected by strong storms accompanied by abundant rainfall and strong electrical activity," highlighted the SMN.
The anticipated storms bring with them urgent warnings for residents to take precautionary measures. The SMN has advised people to remain indoors, keeping away from windows and any electrical appliances. Public health officials have suggested avoiding outdoor activities to minimize risks, especially for those exploring high-risk areas like beaches and riverbanks. "Stay away from trees and electrical posts," the SMN urged, as these can become hazardous during severe weather.
Among the areas under the most severe weather warning, Jujuy stands out, where intensive storms are expected. The SMN stressed, "Those areas could see rainfall values between 80 and 140 mm," particularly during the early parts of Tuesday. People are advised to prepare emergency supplies including flashlights, radios, documents, and charged mobile phones.
One key aspect of the storm alert focuses on the effects rainfall can have on urban infrastructure. With precipitation rates forecasted to be punctuated by heavy showers, residents are warned to avoid flood-prone streets and avoid any unnecessary travel. If water threatens to enter homes, the SMN firmly recommends, "If there’s risk of water entering your home, cut off the electricity supply." This directive serves to shield against electrical hazards during potential flooding scenarios.
To help navigate these dangerous conditions, the SMN categorized alerts based on severity, ranging from green (normal) to red (extreme risk). The yellow alert indicates possible phenomena causing damage and interruptions to daily activities, whereas the red alert signifies the highest level of emergency response with expected exceptional weather events possible. Currently, yellow and orange alerts are dominating the forecast.
For residents living near mountainous regions, increased alertness is also advised, as heavy rainfall could lead to rapid increase of water levels and even sudden flooding, particularly dangerous for outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. Given the risks, the SMN recommends delaying such recreational pursuits until conditions stabilize.
To stay informed, officials are encouraging citizens to monitor updates from the SMN closely and prepare for potential disruptions. "Stay informed through authorities, and always have ready an emergency backpack," the SMN emphasized, reiterative of personal readiness and safety precautions. The situation is continually being assessed, with updates expected as weather conditions evolve.
With the forecasted conditions exhibiting both severity and urgency, authorities implore the public to take all warnings seriously as citizens prepare for storms likely affecting their daily lives. There's no doubt, strong storms can cause widespread concern, but with careful planning and vigilance, the impact can be managed.