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Extreme Cold Affected Several South American Countries

A cold front affected Argentina, Chile, Perú and Bolivia and turned critical, especially in Potosi, Bolivia. The cold front is not believed to be caused by "El Niño".

Several provinces in northwestern Argentina have suffered intense snowstorms with winds up to 100 km/h. The storm left hundreds of people isolated, especially in the town of Salta where railroad tracks and highways were shut down. Conditions worsen closer to its border with Chile.

In Chile, the victims of this storm number about 25,000. The authorities in Arica report one death due to hypothermia. In Perú the cold front has struck the rain forest and the southern highlands; in Puno three children have died as a result of the storm and respiratory ailments have increased.

Bolivia has been struck by intense snowstorms and Potosi has reported snow and ice from 30 cm to 1.5 meters deep. More than 100 people have disappeared in the storms, three adults and two children died from the cold. Respiratory problems have increased and food and shelter is being provided locally.

The health sector is monitoring the situation closely through the communications network. PAHO/WHO in Bolivia is providing information management support, medicines and is mobilizing evaluation teams.