Polar Cold Wave
South America experienced an extraordinary cold wave. Chile and Argentina recorded some of the coldest temperatures outside polar regions. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) attributed this to a polar-origin anticyclone. This event sharply contrasts with extreme heat in the northern hemisphere. It marks climate change’s growing unpredictability and risks.
Unprecedented Cold Snap
The cold wave began on 26 June and peaked on 30 June. Temperatures in central and southern Argentina fell 10°C to 15°C below seasonal averages. Some places reached lows near -15°C (5°F). Areas usually mild in winter, such as Mar del Plata, faced freezing conditions. Even the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, saw snow for the first time in over ten years. The event affected both high-altitude and low-lying regions.
Causes and Meteorological Features
The cold snap was driven by a strong high-pressure system originating near the poles. This polar-origin anticyclone brought atmospheric stability and clear skies. The stable air caused severe frost across wide areas. In Chile, stagnant cold air trapped pollutants, worsening air quality in cities like Santiago and Talca. National weather services confirmed record lows at multiple stations. This system is rare and intensified the cold beyond normal winter patterns.
Impact on Society and Infrastructure
The cold wave disrupted daily life and infrastructure. In Mar del Plata, natural gas supplies, mainly used for heating, were strained. Authorities asked businesses to close temporarily to prioritise residential heating. Schools and public buildings also shut down for safety and energy conservation. Transport faced delays and difficulties in regions unaccustomed to such cold. The unusual weather stressed emergency and public services.
Agricultural and Economic Consequences
Farmers in central Chile and northern Patagonia reported early frost damage to crops. This threatens fruit production and winter harvests. Crop losses could affect local economies and food supply chains. The unexpected cold also raises concerns about long-term agricultural resilience. The event exposed vulnerabilities in farming practices and resource management under shifting climate conditions.
Broader Climate Context
This cold wave occurred amid record heatwaves in Europe and other northern hemisphere regions. Such contrasting extremes underline climate change’s complex influence on weather patterns. It challenges assumptions about warming trends by showing how regional anomalies can cause severe cold spells. The event emphasises the need for adaptive strategies in climate policy and disaster preparedness.
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