Northwestern Argentina faces extreme heat and wildfire alerts

Northwestern Argentina is facing extreme weather conditions characterized by intense heatwaves and a high risk of wildfires. The province of Tucumán has been placed under a red alert for extreme wildfire danger due to a combination of temperatures exceeding 35 °C, low humidity, and strong northern winds. Meteorologists warn that the current conditions meet the ‘30-30-30’ rule—temperatures above 30 °C, humidity below 30%, and winds over 30 km/h—which can lead to explosive fire propagation.

Simultaneously, the region is experiencing record-breaking temperatures. Santiago del Estero recorded 37.2 °C with 24% humidity, ranking among the hottest areas in the country. Other cities in the Northwest Argentina (NOA) region, including San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca, which reached 39.8 °C, and La Rioja, are also reporting extreme thermal levels. Health authorities have issued recommendations to prevent heatstroke, urging citizens to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.