Snowfall in several regions of Argentina marks the arrival of a powerful mass of polar air, indicating a scenario of intense cold that is expected to reach Brazil. The climate phenomenon, which caused negative temperatures in the neighboring country, is advancing through the Southern Cone and is expected to increase the thermal sensation, especially in the states of the Brazilian South Region.
The passage of this system has already resulted in snow, freezing rain and ice accumulation on Argentine roads, notably in the province of Córdoba. Polar systems of this magnitude are often observed at the beginning of winter, reinforcing cold fronts that move across the continent with considerable force. Meteorological experts interpret this situation as an indicator of the magnitude of the cold air that continues to move across the continent.
This Monday (22), Argentine municipalities experienced minimum temperatures of around -5°C. In the city of Córdoba, the snow reached tourist destinations and caused the closure of sections of highways due to the formation of ice on the surface.
Polar mass intensifies cold and generates warnings for southern Brazil
The forecast indicates a drastic decrease in temperatures in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and Paraná in the coming days, according to information from MetSul. Several locations are expected to record frosts, and there are chances that thermometers will reach levels close to 0°C in higher areas.
The displacement of polar air could also influence regions of the Southeast and Midwest, resulting in colder mornings and afternoons with temperatures below what is usual for the season.
Climate experts continue to monitor conditions in the higher altitude areas of Serra Gaúcha and Serra Catarinense, places where the intensity of the cold is expected to be even greater throughout the week.
The most extreme temperatures are expected at the high altitudes of the three southern states, with minimum temperatures that can vary between -5ºC and -7ºC. The chance of even lower records cannot be excluded. The frost can be intense enough to freeze roads in certain areas.
Cold records recorded in 2026 in southern Brazil
- Bom Jardim da Serra (SC): -7.3°C, on June 18, 2026
- Bom Jardim da Serra (SC): -6.7°C, on June 17, 2026
- Panel (SC): -5.8°C, on June 17, 2026
- Bom Jardim da Serra (SC): -5.6°C, on May 21, 2026
- São Joaquim (SC): -5.6°C, on May 12, 2026
- Panel (SC): -5.4°C, on May 21, 2026
- Panel (SC): -5.4°C, on May 13, 2026
- Urupema (SC): -5.1°C, on June 17, 2026
- Urupema (SC): -5.1°C, on May 21, 2026
- Urupema (SC): -5.1°C, on May 13, 2026
Returning to Argentina, one of the most severe occurrences was observed in the Altas Cumbres area, located in the province of Córdoba. The combination of snow, freezing rain and low temperatures forced authorities to close segments of the E-34 highway.
Additionally, snow was reported in La Cumbrecita, a tourist spot renowned for its mountainous views. Roads, building roofs and natural spaces were left under a blanket of white after the action of the climate system.
According to analyzes by MetSul experts, the expectation is that polar air will continue its advance across the continent in the coming days. This progression is expected to sustain the harsh cold in some parts of Argentina and impact weather conditions in Brazil.