22/07/2026 18:51 - Actualidad
The Argentine province of Mendoza—world-renowned for its wine and located at the foothills of the Andes mountains—is currently experiencing a historic snowstorm, with snow accumulations reaching up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) in iconic tourist areas like Puente del Inca and Penitentes. Although the extreme weather has caused traffic disruptions, locals and tourism providers see this as a unique opportunity to showcase the region's breathtaking beauty to the world.
According to local sources like MDZol, tourism provider Matías Cortizo expressed his hope that authorities will design a comprehensive management plan so that once the storm passes, visitors can safely and orderly enjoy the snow. "We can turn this winter into a true showcase to the world. The snow has done its part. Now it's our turn," Cortizo said. Along with 17 other residents, he has been continuously shoveling snow to keep tourist areas clear.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) issued a yellow alert for snow and whiteout conditions affecting several Argentine provinces: Mendoza, Chubut, Neuquén, Río Negro, San Juan, and Santa Cruz. As a result, on July 22, 2026, four border crossings between Argentina and Chile remain simultaneously closed, as reported by media outlets like Infobae:
To mitigate the commercial impact, the Association of Truck Owners of Mendoza (APROCAM) is evaluating rerouting units to the Cardenal Samoré pass, though this implies a significant increase in logistical costs, as reported by La Angostura Digital. In Mendoza, containment areas have been enabled to accommodate up to 1,460 trucks while waiting for the bioceanic corridor to reopen.
The storm caught several tourists off guard. A notable case involved two families from the province of Santa Fe, one with a four-month-old baby, who became trapped in Penitentes. They were successfully rescued by Squadron 27 of the National Gendarmerie (Argentina's federal border security and police force) and transferred to the town of Uspallata in good health, as one of the tourists recounted to La Voz.
Regarding traffic in Mendoza, the Provincial Highway Department reported that Provincial Route 52 presents the most critical section between the Villavicencio viewpoint and Agua de la Zorra, making it impassable due to ice. Route 7 in Punta de Vacas opened for tourist transit at noon on July 22, but will be re-evaluated on July 23 due to potential new snowfall. Driving with tire chains and maximum caution is strongly recommended.
Despite the logistical and weather challenges, the spirit of the high-mountain residents of Mendoza remains firm and optimistic. With a joint effort between the state and locals, this historic snowfall has the potential to become the ideal setting for winter tourism, proving that nature, with its challenges, also brings immense opportunities to enjoy with family.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
