23/07/2026 04:33 - Actualidad
The Argentine province of Mendoza is experiencing an extraordinary weather event. While it challenges logistics and tourism, it has also produced stories of overcoming adversity and miraculous rescues. Since July 15, 2026, the Andes Mountains have been covered by a white blanket that in some areas exceeded 2.5 meters in depth.
According to local media such as Infobae, two families from the province of Santa Fe were caught by the storm in the Penitentes area. One of them was traveling with a 4-month-old baby who needed formula. At dawn, the snow reached their waists.
Thanks to the rapid intervention of Squadron 27 of the National Gendarmerie (Argentina's federal security force), five adults and two children were rescued and safely transported to Uspallata. Karen Fasolo, one of the rescued individuals, highlighted the incredible rescue protocol and the support they received.
The situation high in the mountains is like something out of a movie. Mario González, owner of the restaurant La Caballeriza in Las Cuevas, told El Sol that they had to dig a tunnel just to get out of their house. “We have two and a half meters of snow. We have been flooded since July 15,” he explained.
Despite the adversity, neighbors remain calm and take advantage of sunny days to widen the passages. As of July 22, a total of 92 people have been evacuated in areas like Puente del Inca, Penitentes, and Polvaredas.
The closure of the Cristo Redentor International Pass (the main border crossing between Argentina and Chile) has left around 2,000 trucks stranded, according to data from Cadena 3. The phenomenon is expected to last until August 4, affecting trips to ski resorts. The Mendoza bus terminal reported a 5% drop in passengers compared to the previous year.
| Route | Status | Observations |
|---|---|---|
| RP 52 (Uspallata) | Impassable | From the 2nd viewpoint to Agua de la Zorra due to snow and ice. |
| RP 220 (El Sosneado) | Impassable | From Arroyo Blanco to the abandoned hotel. |
| RP 226 (Malargüe) | Impassable | From Las Tapaderas to El Azufre and El Planchón. |
| RP 222 (Las Leñas) | Drive with caution | Chains mandatory from Gendarmería to Las Leñas. |
| RN 7 | Closed | Between Uspallata and Las Cuevas. |
Source: Provincial Highway Directorate via Los Andes
Although nature imposes challenges, the joint work of the Highway Department, the National Gendarmerie, and the community allows us to overcome this storm with lessons in resilience. The international corridor is expected to gradually normalize by mid-August, paving the way for new tourist opportunities.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
