For this Saturday and Sunday, snowfall is expected in the mountain area. An alert is in effect for the western area of Neuquén, and for storms, in Río Negro. With the arrival of autumn and winter, it is essential Check the condition of the roads before traveling. This is why it is important to take into account what It is necessary to check vehicles before driving on snowy and icy roads, and what to bring when traveling.
Before take the journey to the mountain rangefrom National Highways recommend consulting the official report on the status of the routescheck weather and forecast for the next few daysand above all the condition of the vehicle considering brakes, lights and heating.
Meanwhile, it is noted that While it is snowing it is advisable to avoid traveling about the mountain routes of Neuquén and Río Negro; in these cases, It is better to wait for the weather conditions to clear. Neither must be done at nightand even less in solitude. All these recommendations except in cases that are strictly necessary.
Besides, To travel in the mountainous area it is advisable to wear warm clothing, cold weather shoes, gloves, plenty of water and high-calorie foodsfor any inconvenience that may occur.
What to check your car before heading out on snowy routes in Neuquén and Río Negro
Before leaving, Check the following points on your vehicleto have the best transfer experienceespecially in times of Snow storms.
* Keep the full tankeven on short distance outings.
* Use antifreeze fluid in the engine and windshield wiper cooling system.
* Circulate with ice and snow chains in winter season.
* In light units can use studded tires.
Besides, Don’t forget to bring the following items:
fourth or tow hitch, ropes, blankets, flashlight, toolssmall shovel, starter cable, reflective vest or cloth to place as an indicator flag.
Another recommendation is to bring food and water, to have supplies.
How to install snow chains in 6 simple steps
From the Neuquén Police, listed in six steps, How to attach the snow chain:
1- Verify that the size of the chains matches the size of your vehicle.
2- Extend the chain and check that it is not tangled in any of its points
3- Pass one of the ends of the chain behind the tire, placing the pronounced opening of the chain below the tread. Remember that the chains are always placed on the driving axle.
4- Join the ends of the chain.
5- Arrange the chain and begin fastening using the corresponding anchors.
6- Adjust the chain to the tire using the tensioner, this will prevent it from hitting the bodywork when driving.
From National Roads they showed how to do it, in an explanatory video.
Snow in Neuquén and Río Negro: recommendations for driving on the routes
National Roads recommends driving with caution about the Neuquén and Río Negro routesin view of the snowfall expected in autumn and winter. For that:
* Do not accelerate or brake violently; use the gearbox.
* Maintain braking distance of the vehicle in front of you. It should be considerably higher than under normal conditions.
* Avoid stopping the vehicle on slopes, bridges, curves or places of poor visibility. Don’t stop on the road either: park on the shoulder.
* Respect and prioritize equipment and staff which is carrying out winter maintenance tasks.
* Remember that slopes have priority the vehicles that are ascending.
* Respect the instructions of the staff of National Roads, National Gendarmerie, police forces, road safety agencies, Civil Defense or Civil Protection.
