Chile's Meteorological Directorate (DMC) has issued an agrometeorological warning for frost affecting regions from Valparaíso to Biobío this Sunday, April 26, and Monday, April 27. The phenomenon, caused by a cold anticyclone, threatens sub-zero temperatures that could impact agriculture and livestock production across the central and southern parts of the country.
According to reports from CNN Chile, minimum temperatures could drop as low as -2°C in specific areas. The DMC specified that the threat extends to the coastal range, valleys, and foothills within the affected regions.
Sub-zero temperatures are expected in the O’Higgins, Ñuble, and Biobío regions, with lows reaching -2°C in some locations. Meanwhile, La Tercera reported that minimum temperatures in the Maule, Metropolitan, and Valparaíso regions will fluctuate between 0°C and 2°C.
Recommendations for the Agricultural Sector
With the risk of crop damage looming, the DMC has urged producers to take immediate preventive measures. “Farmers are advised to take preventive measures in anticipation of potential frost,” the agency warned, as reported by CNN Chile.
For those with frost-protection irrigation systems, early activation is advised. For those without such mechanisms—particularly subsistence farmers—the recommendation is to perform heavy manual irrigation to maintain soil moisture and mitigate the cold.
The use of protective covers is also suggested. For vegetables, these should be placed directly over the plants, while for fruit trees, the DMC recommends covering them as much as possible.
In the livestock sector, instructions focus on protecting animals, particularly pigs and poultry, by keeping them in sheds under controlled environmental conditions. For beekeeping, the importance of keeping hives protected and covered was reiterated.
Preventive Alert in Biobío Region Due to Wind and Rain
Alongside the frost warning, the National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response (Senapred) has declared an early preventive alert for the Biobío Region. This measure follows three warnings issued by the DMC projecting wind and precipitation over the coming days.
According to La Tercera, moderate winds are expected along the coast and coastal range starting this Saturday, with gusts potentially reaching 60 km/h. In valley areas, gusts could hit 50 km/h during the weekend.
The forecast for more intense winds shifts toward Tuesday, April 28, and Wednesday, April 29. During those days, gusts of up to 80 km/h are expected in the mountain and foothill sectors.
The weather system also includes precipitation in the foothills and mountains. Rainfall between 25 and 35 millimeters is expected to be concentrated on Tuesday, April 28, with the freezing level (zero-degree isotherm) situated between 3,000 and 3,700 meters above sea level, according to Senapred data.
