Argentina’s National Meteorological Service has issued a yellow alert for severe thunderstorms across ten provinces, effective Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The affected regions include Salta, Jujuy, Tucumán, Catamarca, Santiago del Estero, Formosa, Chaco, Santa Fe, Corrientes and Misiones.
The alert signals a potential for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and possible hail, conditions that could disrupt transportation and local activities. Authorities have not yet specified anticipated rainfall totals or wind speeds, but are advising residents to seize precautions.
The provinces of Salta, Jujuy, and Tucumán, located in the northwestern part of Argentina, are popular tourist destinations known for their colonial architecture and dramatic landscapes. According to tourism guides, Salta is often referred to as “Salta, la linda” (Salta, the elegant) and attracts a significant number of backpackers. A seven-day tour encompassing these three provinces is a common itinerary for visitors seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty and historic towns. The area is also gaining recognition for its wine production, second only to Mendoza in Argentina.
Tour operators are continuing to run scheduled trips, including a seven-day tour of Salta, Jujuy, and Tucumán, with pick-up services from airports and bus stations in Salta. The tour includes guided visits to historical sites in Salta, such as the 9 de Julio Square, the San Bernado Convent, and the San Francisco Church, where General Martín Miguel de Güemes, a figure in Argentina’s independence, is buried. Travel to San Salvador de Jujuy is also included.
Packages for travel to Tucumán, Salta, and Jujuy are currently being offered with discounts, but availability varies depending on the time of year. Hotels in Salta, described as safe and accommodating for tourists, include the Posada del Marques, the Asturias in Cafayate, and the Carlos V in Tucumán. Travel insurance is included in the package offerings.
As of February 13, 2026, no statements have been released by provincial governments regarding potential school closures or emergency response preparations. The National Meteorological Service has not issued any updates beyond the initial yellow alert.
