The Uruguayan Meteorological Institute ( Inumet ) issued a special warning for strong storms in Uruguay that will affect several regions between Saturday and Monday.
Storms are expected on the western and northern coasts Saturday night and early Sunday morning, caused by a humid and unstable air mass moving over the country.
According to the agency, a frontal system will move through the southwest early Sunday morning, moving northeastward and causing severe storms in various parts of the country.
The warning covers six departments: Artigas, Rivera, Tacuarembó, Cerro Largo, Treinta y Tres, and part of the western coast. Heavy rain, gusty winds , intense thunderstorms, and possible hail are expected in these areas.
Inumet recommends taking precautions in rural and urban areas, especially when traveling or engaging in outdoor activities. In addition, it is suggested that you follow official channels for forecast updates.
These types of weather events can cause traffic disruptions, power outages , and damage to crops or light structures. Therefore, the agency emphasizes the importance of staying informed .
For more details, please visit the official Inumet website or access the expanded coverage of weather events in Uruguay Al Día .
In addition to the aforementioned areas, Inumet notes that the frontal system could generate instability in south-central departments such as Durazno, Florida, and part of Canelones. Although they are not under a direct warning, it is recommended to monitor the evolution of the phenomenon, as conditions can change rapidly.
storms in Uruguay often present specific characteristics: wind gusts exceeding 70 km/h, frequent lightning strikes, and accumulated rainfall that can cause temporary flooding. In rural areas, this can affect crops, livestock, and light structures such as sheds or greenhouses.
Strong storms in Uruguay will affect the northeast and east coast of the country.
In cities like Rivera and Treinta y Tres, where urban drainage is limited, heavy rains cause traffic disruptions and road closures. Therefore, local authorities often coordinate with firefighters and emergency services to address risky situations.
On the other hand, the electricity sector is also affected. Severe storms in Uruguay cause fallen branches, cut cables, and blackouts in entire neighborhoods. UTE recommends reporting outages through its app or phone line, and avoiding handling wet or damaged installations.
Which departments will be under alert for strong storms in Uruguay?
Artigas, Rivera, Tacuarembó, Cerro Largo and Treinta y Tres are among the most exposed.
Regarding transportation, caution is advised on national highways, especially on stretches with reduced visibility or standing water. The National Highway Police Directorate regularly issues real-time communications regarding road closures, detours, or dangerous conditions.
The phenomenon also impacts daily life. Many families are adjusting their weekend plans, canceling outdoor activities, or modifying travel schedules. In coastal areas such as Rocha and Maldonado, it is recommended to avoid the beach during storms due to the risk of lightning and dangerous currents.
Inumet maintains constant updates on its website and social media. Additionally, local media outlets such as Uruguay Al Día offer up-to-the-minute coverage, with interactive maps, testimonials, and practical recommendations.
Severe storms in Uruguay are not unusual in spring, when the contrast between warm and cold air masses creates conditions conducive to severe weather. Therefore, October is typically a month of high meteorological activity, and special warnings allow for anticipating risks and taking preventive measures.
In the educational arena, some institutions have begun implementing specific protocols for severe weather events. Rural schools and high schools in exposed areas often suspend classes or modify schedules when severe storm warnings are issued in Uruguay . This measure seeks to protect both students and teachers, especially on trips involving long commutes or poor road conditions.
There has also been an increase in the use of mobile applications for monitoring the weather in real time. Tools such as Windy, AccuWeather, and Inumet's own website allow users to anticipate changes and make informed decisions. On social media, weather-related hashtags are trending, with photos, videos, and citizen reports complementing official information.
On the other hand, the agricultural sector is closely monitoring these types of events. Strong storms in Uruguay can affect the spring harvest, damage sensitive crops such as tomatoes, corn, and strawberries, and cause losses to rural infrastructure. Agricultural associations often issue specific recommendations to minimize the impact, such as reinforcing structures, securing animals, and protecting machinery.
In coastal areas, artisanal fishermen are also adjusting their routines. When storms are forecast, many avoid going out to sea and shelter their boats. In ports like La Paloma and Punta del Este, mooring lines are reinforced and wave conditions are monitored.
Finally, the weather phenomenon has an impact on domestic tourism. Long weekends or holidays may be affected by strong storms in Uruguay, leading to reservation cancellations, destination changes, or rescheduling. Tour operators recommend checking the forecast before traveling and maintaining flexibility in your plans.
With these measures, both institutions and citizens are seeking to adapt to an increasingly changing climate. Prevention and information are key to reducing risks and protecting the population.