Snowfall returned in the middle of November in the Neuquén mountain rangewhich caused will close the Pino Hachado International Pass. Given the current weather conditions, the authorities hope that they will improve to open the crossing and enable transit with Chile, although they warned that they expect the rainfall to continue.
The decision to close binational circulation was made this Sunday at 6 p.m., after analyzing the complications of the abundant snowfall, added to the white wind and the drop in temperature that caused ice formation on the road. “At that time it was decided to close the barrier, mainly as a precaution, because security conditions are very complicated due to this storm we are having,” he explained to LMNeuquén the spokesperson for National Highways, Ailen Vega.
Given this, once traffic through the sector was closed, the National Highway teams began working to try to leave the route in a condition to be traveled in the next few hours. However, Vega explained that “The current weather conditions are expected to continue, so there is no certainty that the pass will be able to operate on Monday”.
snowfalls closure of the pine hachado international crossing.jpg
Meanwhile, not only Snowfall will continue with a drop in temperaturebut also the wind with considerable gusts, which brings with it the formation of white wind in the sector. Given this, the authorities asked not to drive towards Pino Hachado unless it was extremely necessary.
This unexpected spring snowfall occurs just a week after another impressive snowfall that occurred in the area of the Mamuil Malal international crossing, which this Sunday could not operate due to an electrical fault on the Chilean side, leaving many Argentine tourists stranded in the neighboring country until this is resolved.
Recommendations to take into account to minimize accidents
Although the main recommendation is not to drive on routes where there is precipitation, if they have to do so urgently, drivers must always respect traffic rules, do not exceed the speed limits established by regulations, do not drink alcohol before driving and not losing attention to the road due to distractions such as cell phone use.
National Highway Notice – Pino Hachado International Pass closed
In addition, it is important – and mandatory – to travel with the required documentation and that all vehicle occupants use the seat belt correctly adjusted and fastened and the child seat for children under 10 years of age. It is essential:
- Do not try to walk outdoors;
- Get information on National Highways, the status of national and provincial routes, and roads;
- Get information from the National Meteorological Service about forecasts and alert states;
- Stay informed by the authorities.
- It is requested to avoid driving on the shoulder, except in cases of extreme necessity.
- Check the conditions of the vehicle: antifreeze, chains, lights, the height of the car and the road to travel.
Low temperatures and frost leave large patches of ice that are not visible, but can be fatal. Be careful in shady places on the routes and if there is any inconvenience, place the markers 50 or 60 meters from the car.
