RM Faces -3°C Frost: Historical Cold Warning for Chile

SANTIAGO, June 17, 2025

A frigid weather pattern is set to grip central Chile, with the chilliest conditions expected this Wednesday. Prepare for a noticeable temperature drop as a cold front settles in.

Frosty conditions are forecast for the central regions of Chile, with temperatures plummeting this week.

• A cold front will impact central Chile through Friday.
• The valleys and precordilleran sectors will experience the coldest temperatures.
• Unusually intense frost is anticipated.

What’s the forecast for this week? A high-pressure system is bringing atmospheric stability and clear skies, but also poor ventilation, which will result in unusually intense frost, according to Andrés Moncada, a meteorologist with the Meteorological Directorate of Chile.Minimum temperatures are expected to plummet, particularly in the valleys from the Valparaíso region to the Bío Bío.

Moncada highlighted the capital’s forecast. He stated,”In particular,the Metropolitan Region,the center of the capital,should register around -1 ° C tomorrow at dawn,the lowest temperature being so far this year 2025.” Areas like Tiltil, Pirque, curacaví, and Paine could see temperatures between -2 ° C and -3 ° C.

Did you know?-The term “pre-cordilleran” refers to areas located at the foot of the Andes Mountains. These regions often experience unique microclimates due to their altitude and proximity to the mountains.

Frosty Regions under the Microscope

the extreme cold will persist until Friday, tho with a slight moderation. The meteorologist explained that the temperatures will gradually increase. A minor warming trend is expected on Thursday, with minimums ranging from 0 ° C to 1 ° C, and another for Friday.

The coldest temperatures this Wednesday will be felt in the Maule, Ñuble, and Bío Bío regions, especially in the pre-mountain areas and the Cordillera de la Costa. These zones will experience the most notable temperature drops within the affected region.

reader question:-How might this cold snap affect local agriculture, especially fruit and vegetable crops in the affected regions? Share your thoughts in the comments.

The most intense cold will hit between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM on Wednesday morning, when the lowest temperatures of the day are expected. This increases the chance of ground frost and other effects in exposed areas.

Agrometeorological Warning

For details on the agrometeorological warning for frost, see the document below:

Beyond teh Frost: Chile’s Agricultural Outlook

As we’ve established, a significant cold snap is gripping central Chile, presenting challenges, especially for agriculture [[1]]. The anticipated frost, particularly intense in the valleys and pre-cordilleran regions mentioned earlier, poses a direct threat to the region’s delicate fruit and vegetable crops. This section delves into the potential impacts, explores protective measures, and offers a glimpse into the future of farming in a climate-changing world.

The primary concern is the sensitivity of many crops to freezing temperatures. Early-season vulnerabilities may have already been felt.

A severe frost can wipe out entire harvests, causing significant economic losses for farmers. It also disrupts the supply chain, possibly leading to increased food prices.

The vulnerability of crops varies. Such as, many fruit trees are especially susceptible during the early stages of flowering or fruit development. Vegetables like leafy greens and tender herbs are similarly at risk. Grapes, a major agricultural product in many of the affected areas, are also vulnerable.

Protective Measures for Chilean Farmers

Farmers have several tools at their disposal to mitigate frost damage. These can be divided into active and passive methods.

• Irrigation: Applying water, often by overhead sprinklers, releases latent heat as it freezes, protecting the plants. This is a common technique,but requires careful management to avoid ice buildup that can damage branches.
• Wind Machines: These circulate the air, bringing warmer air down from above and preventing frost from settling.
• Covering Crops: Using row covers or plastic sheeting can trap heat and shield plants from direct frost.
• Selecting Cold-hardy Varieties: Encouraging farmers to choose plants that are naturally more resistant to cold temperatures.
• Delayed Pruning: Delay pruning until after the risk of frost has passed can protect new growth.

While these measures can be effective, they are not always foolproof. The severity of the frost, the crop, and the resources available influence the success of these methods.

Long-Term Adaptations

Climate change is likely to intensify the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, like the cold snap affecting Chile. This means that farmers must consider long-term adaptations and innovative solutions.

Adapting to climate change requires a shift toward more resilient farming practices. This includes investing in early warning systems and adopting more enduring irrigation techniques.

Here are some key considerations:

• Investing in Weather Monitoring: Advanced weather monitoring systems, including on-site sensors, provide farmers wiht real-time data on temperature, humidity, and wind speed. this allows them to plan frost protection strategies effectively.
• Implementing Soil Health Practices: Healthy soil can retain more moisture and improve the resilience of plants to temperature fluctuations. Cover cropping, crop rotation, and reduced tillage can enhance soil health.
• Diversifying crops: Planting a wider variety of crops can reduce the risk of total crop failure. Different crops have varying levels of frost tolerance.
• Exploring New Protective Technologies: Many farmers are looking into innovative solutions,such as using biodegradable covers or creating localized microclimates to minimize the frost’s impact.

A Look Ahead

As the climate continues to change, Chilean agriculture is entering a new era. By embracing innovation, implementing sustainable practices, and adapting to the changing climate, Chilean farmers can continue to provide the nation and the world with its harvest, even in the face of adversity.

FAQs

Here are some frequent questions regarding frost and the impact on agriculture:

What exactly is frost, and how does it damage crops?

Frost occurs when water vapor in the air freezes and deposits ice crystals on surfaces. These ice crystals can damage plant cells, leading to discoloration, wilting, and ultimately, crop failure. Tender new growth and flowers are especially vulnerable.

Are all regions of Chile equally at risk from frost?

No, the risk varies. The valleys and pre-cordilleran regions, as mentioned earlier, are particularly vulnerable because of temperature inversions and their elevation. Coastal areas typically experience less frost, benefiting from the moderating influence of the ocean.

What can consumers do to support farmers during a cold snap?

Consumers can support local farmers by purchasing locally grown produce. Direct purchases through farmers’ markets, or choosing local options at grocery stores coudl help sustain them during difficult times. Learning about potential future issues is also an critically important key!