Argentina hit by severe polar cold wave as alerts cover 21 provinces
A polar air mass from Antarctica has driven an intense cold wave across Argentina, with the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) issuing yellow alerts for extreme temperatures in 21 jurisdictions and orange alerts in parts of Buenos Aires and Córdoba. Record low temperatures were recorded in several locations, including Junín at –2.9 °C, Nueve de Julio at –3 °C, and Olavarría with a high of only 5 °C.
The cold spell is affecting daily life: schools in Mendoza were suspended, health officials warned of a possible rise in respiratory illnesses after a May influenza peak, and energy demand for heating has risen sharply. Authorities advise the public, especially children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions, to limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, use safe heating, and drive cautiously amid fog and reduced visibility.
Forecasts indicate a gradual warming from mid‑week onward, with daytime highs expected to climb to the high teens in the central regions while mornings will remain cold. The SMN expects the polar influence to wane by the weekend, bringing more stable weather and milder temperatures across the country.