After a critical weekend with unprecedented Zonda wind gusts—a meteorological phenomenon of warm, extremely dry air descending from the Andes Mountains—Salta authorities confirmed control over fires in the capital. The total reaches 830 affected hectares, but a cool front brings hope. A yellow alert remains active for the local valleys.
The Argentine province of Córdoba is bracing for a severe weather scenario on Thursday, July 16, and Friday, July 17, 2026. Authorities forecast strong wind gusts, the local Zonda wind effect, and an extreme risk of forest fires. Safety guidelines have been issued to protect the community.
Civil Protection issued a weather warning for nine departments in Argentina's San Juan province. The notorious Zonda wind, a warm dry wind descending from the Andes, could bring gusts exceeding 90 km/h. Residents should prepare for hazardous conditions and elevated fire risk.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
