Beginning in the early hours of Tuesday, August 19, 2025 , the country will face a highly intense climate scenario: strong, persistent winds accompanied by heavy rains and isolated storms. This phenomenon will be associated with the strengthening of an extratropical cyclone , a low-pressure system that will settle over the western coast and affect a large portion of the country.
What is an extratropical cyclone and how does it affect people?
An extratropical cyclone is a low-pressure atmospheric system that typically develops in mid-latitudes. Unlike tropical cyclones, it thrives on temperature contrasts between cold and warm air masses. In this case, the collision will generate an increase in wind intensity , reaching between 40 and 60 km/h (25 and 37 mph) persistently , with gusts that could exceed 80 km/h (50 mph) in specific areas.
This type of phenomenon is often accompanied by intense rainfall , which can cause flooding, river flooding, and complications in poorly drained urban areas.
Tuesday 19th: start of the storm
easterly and northeasterly winds will begin to strengthen. The phenomenon is expected to gradually cover the entire country, affecting both coastal and inland areas.
Rainfall will be heavy and continuous , with the risk of occasional strong storms. In this context, the public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and secure objects in patios, balconies, and rooftops.
Wednesday 20th: the wind changes direction
The system will move southeastward throughout the territory on Wednesday. This movement will generate a significant shift: winds will shift to the west , primarily affecting areas south of the Río Negro .
Rainfall will continue to be heavy in these areas, although it will begin to improve towards the afternoon. However, gusts will persist , so the risk of fallen trees and branches and power outages will remain.
Thursday 21st: gradual improvement
gradual decrease in wind intensity is expected by early Thursday morning . While some isolated showers could still be reported in the south and east, the overall outlook is for improving weather . Atmospheric conditions will tend to stabilize, marking the end of the meteorological event.
Risks associated with the storm
Strong, persistent winds not only make everyday life uncomfortable, but also pose a real danger. The main risks include:
-
Falling trees and branches on homes, vehicles, or power lines.
-
Difficulties in navigation in rivers and coastal areas due to intense gusts.
-
Power outages due to damage to distribution lines.
-
Dangerous travel on roads, especially for large vehicles.
-
Urban flooding due to accumulation of water in low-lying areas.
Recommendations for the population
In view of the arrival of this extratropical cyclone , meteorological authorities recommend:
-
Stay informed through official channels.
-
Avoid leaving home during the hours of greatest wind intensity.
-
Remove flower pots, signs or objects that could become projectiles.
-
Check roofs and light structures that could be blown away.
-
Do not attempt to cross flooded areas, whether on foot or by vehicle.
-
Follow the instructions of emergency agencies.
Impact on key sectors
The storm will not only have an impact on everyday life, but also on strategic areas:
1. Agriculture: Abundant rainfall can be beneficial for certain crops, but excess water can cause losses in areas with saturated soils.
2. Livestock: Persistent wind and rain will require sheltering livestock, especially in open fields on the coast and in the south.
3. Transportation: Road complications, airport delays, and port cancellations are expected due to adverse conditions.
4. Power: The power supply may be affected by trees falling onto power lines, which will require reinforcements for repair teams.
Medium-term outlook
Although the extratropical cyclone will begin to dissipate by Thursday, forecasts indicate that climate instability could continue in the region with further episodes of rain and storms in the following weeks. This is due to an atmospheric pattern marked by contrasting temperatures and humidity in the Southern Cone.