The National Weather Service (SMN, for its Spanish initials) issued a code violet for Buenos Aires City and surrounding metropolitan areas as heavy fog descended upon the region early Tuesday. A code violet is not an indicator of high risk like orange or red, but rather a warning that a certain weather phenomenon can cause “inconveniences” for everyday activities. 

The fog has affected inbound and outbound flights in Buenos Aires. An Aerolineas Argentinas spokesperson told the Herald that at least 25 company flights have been delayed in the Aeroparque and Ezeiza airports. In addition to departing flights, at least five airplanes scheduled to land in Buenos Aires were diverted to other cities. 

Sources from airport operator Aeropuertos Argentina confirmed to the Herald that Aeroparque is currently not operational due to the fog. Passengers with flights scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday are recommended to follow the flight’s status on the company’s website, as the situation is constantly shifting and could change on a moment’s notice. 

Ezeiza, on the other hand, is operating but landings depend on each plain, as the more technically advanced aircrafts used for international travel can manueuvre and function through instruments independently of the weather.

According to the SMN, the fog is expected to last until Tuesday night. City residents venturing out to their daily activities in Buenos Aires encountered thick fog banks covering extensive parts of the city, with visibility in some cases reduced to less than 100 meters. 

The phenomenon, which also hit provinces like Córdoba, Entre Ríos, La Pampa, and San Luis, is affecting road traffic as well, as vehicles are forced to exert caution due to poor visibility. The SMN suggests drivers avoid going out if they can, but for those who must, the recommendation is to circulate slowly, use low beams, keep a prudent distance from other cars, and stay informed of any developments. 

Cover photo of Casa Rosada covered in fog. Credit: Lucila Cristallo