Paso Los Libertadores is closed again to all types of vehicles.

Paso Los Libertadores has once again been closed to all types of vehicles following adverse weather conditions in the high mountain region. The closure was announced by the Border Crossing Unit of the Ministry of the Interior late Wednesday, citing preventive measures due to unfavorable climate conditions. According to the communication issued by the Coordination Team of the Los Libertadores Border Complex, Integrated System Cristo Redentor, under the Provincial Presidential Delegation of the Andes, the decision followed a coordination meeting with representatives from both sides of the border. The announcement stated that technical reports from both road authorities indicated instability due to weather forecasts for the high mountains. These conditions were deemed unsafe for traffic, prompting the suspension of international transit for all vehicle types. The closure of barriers at Guardia Vieja in Chile and Uspallata in Argentina will take effect from 15:00 local time on Wednesday (16:00 in the neighboring country). The international tunnel will close at 17:00 in Chile and 18:00 in Argentina. The measure is attributed to the challenging weather conditions affecting both sectors, including snowfall, low temperatures, ice formation, and strong winds. These factors have compromised safe passage for travelers. The situation is expected to persist through Thursday, 3 September, with further evaluation during a binational coordination committee meeting scheduled for the following day. Previously, vehicle traffic had been reopened for cargo transport on Monday after being temporarily suspended earlier in the week. This latest closure marks another disruption in the movement of goods and people across one of South America’s key border crossings. The Paso Los Libertadores connects Chile and Argentina, facilitating trade and travel between the two nations. Its intermittent closures have become increasingly frequent in recent months, raising concerns among businesses and commuters reliant on the route. The closure has affected transportation schedules and logistics operations, particularly for companies engaged in cross-border freight. Local officials have emphasized that the decision was made to prioritize safety amid the deteriorating weather conditions. The binational committee will assess whether the restrictions should continue beyond Thursday, based on updated assessments of the environmental conditions. The high-altitude terrain along the Paso Los Libertadores is known for its extreme weather patterns, which can rapidly change and pose significant risks to drivers. In the past, similar closures have led to delays and increased costs for businesses operating in the region. With the current closure, the impact is likely to be felt over the coming days, especially as the weather forecast indicates continued unstable conditions. Authorities have urged travelers and freight operators to monitor updates and plan accordingly.