Paso Cristo Redentor Closed Preventively After Mountain Snow Forecast
Binational authorities halted traffic to protect vehicles and cargo pending a joint weather reassessment
Overview
- The Paso Internacional Cristo Redentor was closed preventively on Sunday after forecasts showed unstable conditions in the high Andes, with barriers at Uspallata and Guardia Vieja lowered at 20:00 and the international tunnel shut at 22:00.
- Argentina’s Servicio Meteorológico Nacional issued a yellow alert covering Monday and Tuesday for abundant rain, storms and elevated chances of intense snowfall in the cordillera, along with low temperatures in mountain localities.
- Authorities required tire chains for travel in the high-mountain zone and said the staged suspension aims to reduce risks from heavy snow and low visibility for drivers and transport operators.
- The closure will disrupt freight and passenger movements on Ruta 7 and affect tourism and local services until conditions improve, with reported mountain lows near −7°C and risks of hail and strong gusts.
- A joint report by Argentine and Chilean road and border authorities is scheduled for Monday at 21:00 to assess road safety and decide whether to reopen the corridor, a standard step that depends on updated road and meteorological checks.