Rosario-Córdoba Highway Remains Partially Closed Following Severe Storm and Multiple Truck Rollovers – A powerful storm system swept through parts of Santa Fe province, Argentina, on Wednesday night, causing widespread disruption and a complete closure of a section of the Rosario-Córdoba highway. At least ten trucks were overturned by strong winds between Armstrong and Tortugas, leaving authorities scrambling to clear the roadway and restore traffic flow. The incident highlights the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to extreme weather events and has prompted safety warnings for drivers in the region.
The severe weather, characterized by strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall, prompted an orange alert for intense phenomena across southern Santa Fe province. The Rosario-Córdoba highway, a vital transportation artery connecting two major Argentine cities, bore the brunt of the storm’s impact. Initial reports indicated that the strong gusts of wind were the primary cause of the truck rollovers, with visibility significantly reduced by the torrential rain. As of Thursday morning, traffic remained halted in the Córdoba direction, with diversions in place via Provincial Route 15.
Storm’s Impact Extends Beyond the Highway
The disruption extended beyond the highway itself. Provincial Route 9 was also affected, with sections near kilometer 408/09 experiencing flooding, limiting access to heavy vehicles and pick-up trucks. Emergency services responded to reports of damage in the town of Tortugas, where strong winds caused roofs to collapse, downed power lines, and uprooted trees. Agents from Civil Protection were dispatched to the area to assist affected residents. The Agencia Provincial de Seguridad Vial (APSV) issued a statement urging motorists to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible, citing potential delays and hazardous conditions.
Social media platforms were flooded with videos depicting the chaotic scene on the highway, showing numerous trucks overturned along the roadway between Cañada de Gómez and Tortugas. Estimates suggest between six and eight trucks were affected, though a precise count is still being compiled by authorities. One of the overturned trucks was reportedly carrying livestock, which escaped following the incident, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Traffic Management and Diversions
As of Thursday morning, February 19, 2026, the APSV confirmed that traffic was flowing in the direction of Rosario, but the lane heading towards Córdoba remained completely blocked. The agency announced via X (formerly Twitter) that diversions were in place via Provincial Route 15. Authorities are urging drivers to respect all traffic signals and to anticipate significant delays. The removal of the overturned vehicles is proving to be a slow process due to the ongoing inclement weather.
#Actualizamos
AU ROS-CORContinúa el corte total entre Armstrong y Tortugas sentido hacia Córdoba por vuelco de camiones.
�� Se realizan desvíos en RP 15.▶️ Respetar las indicaciones.
▶️ Prever demoras. De ser posible, evitar la zona.— Agencia Provincial de Seguridad Vial (@RedSegVial) February 19, 2026
Weather Warnings and Regional Impact
The National Meteorological Service had issued severe weather warnings for the region encompassing Santa Fe and Córdoba and surrounding areas prior to the storm’s arrival. The warnings predicted strong winds and heavy rainfall, conditions that ultimately materialized and contributed to the hazardous situation on the Rosario-Córdoba highway. The storm also impacted other areas of southern Córdoba province, with reports of strong winds and localized flooding. The APSV reiterated its recommendations for safe driving practices during adverse weather conditions, including reducing speed, activating headlights, and ensuring all vehicle occupants are wearing seatbelts.
Looking Ahead: Road Clearance and Recovery
Authorities are working diligently to clear the highway and restore normal traffic flow. The process is expected to seize several hours, if not longer, depending on the weather conditions. The APSV has not yet provided a specific timeline for the reopening of the highway in the Córdoba direction, but continues to provide updates via its social media channels. Motorists are advised to check the latest traffic reports before traveling and to consider alternative routes if possible. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe weather and the importance of preparedness and caution on the roads.
The focus now shifts to the complete removal of the overturned vehicles and the assessment of any structural damage to the highway itself. Further updates will be provided as they turn into available. The long-term impact of the storm on transportation and logistics in the region remains to be seen, but authorities are committed to minimizing disruption and ensuring the safety of all travelers.
As of this report, the next official update from the Agencia Provincial de Seguridad Vial is expected later this afternoon. We encourage readers to share their experiences and observations in the comments section below, and to stay tuned to World Today Journal for continuing coverage of this developing story.
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