Heavy rain, strong winds, and snowfall expected as new frontal system approaches
SANTIAGO — Chile’s central and southern regions are preparing for a powerful frontal system bringing wind, rain, and snow over the coming days, according to updated forecasts from the Dirección Meteorológica de Chile (DMC). The system is expected to benefit water reserves, with substantial snowfall anticipated across the Andes from the Coquimbo to Biobío regions.
Alerts issued for high winds and snowfall
The DMC has issued weather alerts for much of central Chile due to moderate to strong winds and heavy precipitation. Gusts may exceed 80 km/h in areas from Valparaíso to Ñuble, driven by a low-level jet stream. The strong winds may cause fallen branches, power outages, and “whiteout” conditions in mountainous regions.
Whiteout conditions occur when fresh, uncompacted snow is lifted and dispersed by strong winds, significantly reducing visibility.
Significant rainfall totals expected
- Valparaíso Region: Up to 30 mm of rain, mainly overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning.
- Santiago Metropolitan Region: Similar rainfall amounts concentrated on Thursday morning.
- O’Higgins Region: Heavier rainfall with up to 40 mm expected on Thursday.
- Maule, Ñuble, and Biobío Regions: Extended rainfall through Tuesday, June 17, with accumulations likely exceeding 100 mm during the holiday weekend.
Additionally, the DMC has warned of possible thunderstorms on Thursday in Maule, Ñuble, and Biobío due to post-frontal atmospheric instability, which may generate convective clouds with lightning.
Possible snowfall and sleet for Santiago’s eastern sectors
The frontal system is accompanied by colder temperatures, increasing the likelihood of snow not only in the high mountains but also in lower pre-Andean areas closer to populated zones.
- High likelihood of snow in San José de Maipo, San Fabián de Alico, Las Trancas, and Farellones.
- Potential sleet (aguanieve) in eastern Santiago neighborhoods such as Lo Barnechea, upper La Reina, and Peñalolén between Thursday evening and early Friday.
These wintry conditions are welcomed by both residents and the tourism industry, as ski centers and mountain resorts benefit from fresh snowfall.
Cold snap to follow weekend storm
Once precipitation subsides, temperatures are expected to drop sharply starting Friday:
- Santiago Metropolitan Region: Lows near 2°C, highs not exceeding 14°C.
- Valparaíso Coast: Minimums around 6°C, dropping to 1°C inland.
- O’Higgins, Maule, Ñuble Regions: Minimums near 2°C, highs below 13°C.
- Talca and Curicó: Expected to record lows of 0°C on Saturday morning.
The cold spell could persist for several days, prompting authorities to advise residents to prepare appropriate clothing, ensure home heating, and prioritize care for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and young children.
Another frontal system possible Sunday
Meteorologists are closely monitoring the development of a second system forecast to impact central Chile on Sunday, June 15. Early estimates suggest additional rainfall of up to 40 mm for Valparaíso and the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which may exacerbate soil saturation and pose travel disruptions if storms continue in quick succession.
The active weather pattern aligns with the seasonal transition into winter, marked by increased precipitation, colder temperatures, and more frequent snowfall across the Andes.
