Chile's Meteorological Directorate (DMC) has issued an agrometeorological warning following the arrival of a polar anticyclone, which is set to bring frost to six regions across the country. The phenomenon is expected to peak between Sunday night, April 26, and the early hours of Monday, April 27, with Monday morning identified as the most critical period.
Regions under alert include Valparaíso, Metropolitana, O’Higgins, Maule, Ñuble, and Biobío. According to a report by El Mostrador, the most extreme conditions will be felt in Ñuble and Biobío, where pre-cordillera areas could see temperatures drop to -2°C during Monday morning, with frost likely in valleys and coastal areas.
In the Metropolitan Region, Monday will be the most critical day. Temperatures in the valleys are expected to fluctuate between 1°C and 4°C, while the pre-cordillera and coastal ranges could see thermometers dip as low as 1°C. Sunday is expected to be slightly milder, with lows ranging from 3°C to 5°C in the valleys.
The Valparaíso Region will see lows between 1°C and 4°C on both Sunday and Monday, with even colder temperatures in higher elevations and the pre-cordillera. Meanwhile, in O’Higgins, valleys will record between 1°C and 3°C on Sunday, while some pre-cordillera sectors could hit -1°C on Monday.
In the Maule Region, temperatures are expected to hover around 0°C on Monday in pre-cordillera and coastal range areas. In light of these conditions, farmers and gardeners are advised to protect sensitive crops—particularly broad-leaf varieties and newly transplanted plants—using frost blankets or plastic sheeting.
For households, experts recommend checking heaters and stoves before their first use of the season. Authorities also suggest ventilating indoor spaces when using combustion-based heating and strictly avoiding the use of charcoal braziers in enclosed environments.
Drivers are also warned of a significant risk of frost on windshields starting early Monday morning. It is recommended to keep a scraper handy or use lukewarm—never hot—water to clear the glass. Additionally, motorists are advised to check their coolant levels.
In political news, La Tercera reported that the government of José Antonio Kast has presented its National Reconstruction Plan. This initiative includes tax adjustments, funding for the restoration of Valparaíso and Biobío, and measures to contain public spending.
The plan was presented following an agreement with the PDG to ensure the approval of the legislative proposal in the Chamber of Deputies. The news outlet also highlighted internal tensions, noting a disagreement between the chairman of Codelco, Máximo Pacheco, and the Ministers of Finance and Economy.
