The measure affects the department of Malargüe and the towns of El Sosneado, El Nihuil, Gualtallary, Santa Clara, La Carrera, Las Vegas, Valle del Sol and El Salto. In the rest of the province, educational services are provided as normal.
Due to weather forecasts confirming gusts of Zonda wind and following the recommendations of the Civil Defense Directorate, the General Directorate of Schools (DGE) reports that this Monday, September 2, the suspension of in-person classes in the afternoon shift has been determined in schools of all levels and modalities in the following locations: the entire territory of Malargüe; El Sosneado and El Nihuil (San Rafael), Gualtallary, Santa Clara, La Carrera (Tupungato), Las Vegas, Valle del Sol and El Salto (high areas of Potrerillos).
School activities must be carried out virtually through the educational platform Escuela Digital Mendoza.
In the rest of the province, educational services are being provided as normal.
GALLERY
Impact of Zonda Winds on Educational Services in Malargüe and Surrounding Towns
Table of Contents
Introduction
In response to anticipated weather conditions featuring gusts of Zonda wind, the General Directorate of Schools (DGE) has announced the temporary suspension of educational services in the department of Malargüe and its surrounding towns, including El Sosneado, El Nihuil, Gualtallary, Santa Clara, La Carrera, Las Vegas, Valle del Sol, and El Salto. This precautionary measure aims to ensure the safety of students and staff, protecting them from potential hazards associated with strong winds. Meanwhile, educational services in the remaining parts of the province will continue as normal.
Understanding Zonda Winds
Zonda winds are a type of dry, warm wind that occurs in the eastern slopes of the Andes, particularly in Mendoza, Argentina. These winds can lead to sudden temperature increases, reduce humidity, and significantly raise the risk of wildfires. The DGE’s decision to suspend classes is driven by the need to prioritize student safety, as these winds can create hazardous conditions, particularly for outdoor activities.
School Closures: A Necessary Precaution
The decision to close schools in Malargüe and neighboring towns follows careful consideration of the weather forecasts and recommendations from the Civil Defense Directorate. The DGE aims to minimize unnecessary exposure of students and staff to elements that could compromise their safety. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing weather conditions and to keep in touch with their local educational institutions for updates.
Affected Areas
The measure specifically affects the following towns within the Malargüe department:
- El Sosneado
- El Nihuil
- Gualtallary
- Santa Clara
- La Carrera
- Las Vegas
- Valle del Sol
- El Salto
In contrast, schools in other provinces are operating normally, providing continuity and stability for those students.
Importance of Preparedness
The unfolding weather events emphasize the importance of preparedness, not just for educational institutions but for entire communities. Here are some preparedness tips for families and residents during Zonda wind events:
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news outlets or weather apps for real-time updates on weather conditions and school closures.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Strong winds can turn outdoor items into projectiles. Secure or bring in garden furniture, toys, and any loose items to prevent accidents.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: If possible, avoid going outdoors when Zonda winds are anticipated. If it’s necessary to be outside, take precautions to protect yourself from dust and debris.
- Communicate with Schools: Parents are advised to ensure they have the latest information from their children’s schools regarding closures and safety protocols.
Monitoring the Situation
The DGE and local authorities will continuously monitor the weather situation and will communicate promptly any changes to the current status of school closures. Educational institutions are committed to returning to regular schedules once it is deemed safe to do so.
Conclusion
Safety is paramount during natural weather events such as Zonda winds. The temporary suspension of educational services in Malargüe and nearby towns reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding students and staff. As conditions change, it’s crucial for families to remain engaged and informed, ensuring the well-being of their communities. For now, while some schools take a break, we hope that weather conditions settle soon, allowing all educational services to resume smoothly.
For further updates, follow the General Directorate of Schools on their official channels, or stay connected with local news sources for the latest developments regarding educational services in your area. Stay safe!
