Given these circumstances, the alert level issued is yellow, this means that there are “possible meteorological phenomena with the potential for damage and risk of momentary interruption of daily activities”, according to the meteorological information provided by the SMN.
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From the Lanín National Park they asked not to try to travel the trails during the alert.
The main areas affected by the heavy snowfall will be in the Aluminé Mountain Range, Chos Malal Mountain Range, Loncopué Mountain Range, Minas Mountain Range, Picunches Mountain Range and Ñorquín Mountain Range. Also the Huiliches Mountain Range, Lácar Mountain Range, the south of Aluminé and the Los Lagos area.
Regarding the climatic conditions, they detailed: “The area will be affected by persistent snowfalls of varying intensity, some locally strong. Accumulated snow values between 30 and 40 centimeters are expected, and may be exceeded from time to time.” However, they clarified: “In areas of lower altitude, precipitation could be in the form of rain or a mixture of rain and snow.”
SMN recommendations for snow alerts: avoid outdoor activities; periodically remove snow accumulated on roofs: drive with appropriate vehicles prepared for ice and snow; ventilate vehicles and homes to avoid the accumulation of carbon monoxide; Get information from the authorities and always have an emergency backpack ready with a flashlight, radio, documents and telephone.
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The yellow alert for snowfall will be in effect on Monday and Tuesday.
How to drive in ice and snow
Given these weather conditions, one of the main recommendations is not to go out on the routes if it is not strictly necessary, but if you cannot postpone it, it is mainly recommended to consult the official part of the route conditions before traveling. In this regard, it is requested to avoid driving on routes with snow accumulation, unless it is an emergency.
It is also always requested to wear a seat belt and that children travel in the respective safety devices, depending on their age.
It is important to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, since more space is needed to stop on ice or snow. In addition, it is important to drive smoothly to avoid sudden movements or “jerks” and reduce speed to take a curve; reducing speed is also essential in these cases.
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It is requested that you inform yourself about the status of the routes before embarking on any trip.
It is requested to avoid driving on the shoulder, except in cases of extreme necessity. Check the conditions of the vehicle: antifreeze, chains, lights, the height of the car and the road to travel.
Low temperatures and frost leave large patches of ice that are not visible, but can be fatal. Be careful in shady places on the routes and if there is any inconvenience, place the markers 50 or 60 meters from the car.
Recommendations to take into account to minimize accidents
- Do not try to walk outdoors;
- Get information on National Highways, the status of national and provincial routes, and roads;
- Get information from the National Meteorological Service about forecasts and alert states;
- Stay informed by the authorities.
- In forested areas, both on trekking and bicycle paths and on vehicle roads, falling stones, branches and trees are frequent.
- Secure items that can fly away.
