Two consecutive long weekends are coming up in Mendoza and many tourists and Mendoza residents planned to visit high mountain. The Andes mountain range has been suffering from a strong storm for some time now and that is why the local government requested extreme caution. caution and do not climb without taking into account the conditions of the Provincial and National Road routes. The trafficability status is published daily on the Mendoza Government website. This Friday, more than a dozen people even had to be evacuated in Penitentes.
For these days, temperatures below zero, freezing and snowfall are expected even until Thursday of next week in the mountain area. Given this panorama, Civil Defense emphasizes that “we recommend that drivers drive at low speeds to maintain control of the vehicle at all times. It is crucial to avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as well as maintain correct stability using the steering wheel in case of loss of control.”
In all this context, they warn that the proper preparation of the vehicle stands out as a priority. It is advisable to keep the fuel tank full, as consumption can increase significantly in certain weather conditions. In addition, it is essential to use antifreeze fluid in the engine cooling system and verify the correct operation of the wiper blades to ensure optimal visibility.
In regions like high mountain, remembers the obligation to carry chains in vehicles. “This safety element is essential to ensure traction in adverse driving conditions. They must be adjusted to each vehicle model to guarantee their effectiveness,” the experts emphasized. It is also essential to have an emergency kit in the vehicle. Carrying an extra coat, supplies of hot and cold liquids, as well as caloric supplies, can make a difference in risk situations.
In addition, it is advisable to have a series of tools on hand that can be vital in an emergency. A jump-start cable, a flashlight with batteries, a rope, a small shovel for clearing blockages, and a tow bar are essential elements that can facilitate the resolution of unforeseen situations on the road.
Advice for residents of the mountain area
As for those who live in the mountain region of Mendoza, “it is important that residents prepare adequately by carefully following the instructions of local authorities and forecast updates,” the specialists detailed.
Likewise, they pointed out that “you must stock up on enough firewood and fuel to keep your home warm and store drinking water in sufficient quantity to cover your needs during the snowfall period.”
Another recommendation is to provide yourself with food and medicine and a fully equipped first aid kit. Meanwhile, for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women with a near delivery date, the transfer must be planned in advance to a relative’s home and for people with chronic illnesses, take precautions additional, such as having the necessary medications.
On the other hand, it is proposed to clean the roofs and places in the house that may have accumulated snow, to avoid any type of accident. Finally, it is recommended that you equip yourself with battery-operated devices, such as a headlamp and an AM/FM radio, provide yourself with extra lamps and batteries, candles and matches, coarse salt or plain sand to spread on frozen traffic tracks in the property and check stock of appropriate winter clothing and develop a communications network with the residents of the area.
