Mexico Braces for Days of Intense Weather

Monsoon and tropical systems threaten severe storms, heat, and high waves across the nation.

Mexico is bracing for a barrage of severe weather, as the Mexican monsoon combines with low pressure systems and tropical waves. Much of the country is expected to experience storms, hail, high waves, and extreme heat over the next four days.

Widespread Impact Expected

According to the National Meteorological Service (SMN), the most severe effects of the confluence of weather systems will be felt in the northwest, west, south, east and Yucatan Peninsula regions. Residents are urged to stay informed and take precautions.

Heavy rains are anticipated in Sinaloa, Nayarit, and Jalisco, with rainfall totals potentially reaching 150 mm. Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guerrero, Veracruz, Michoacán, Colima, and Durango will also experience significant rainfall accompanied by lightning and possible hail.

Tropical Influences

A tropical wave interacting with a low-pressure channel will bring storms to Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo. Meanwhile, a low-pressure area off the Pacific coast will further intensify rainfall in Michoacán, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. According to the SMN, this low-pressure system is not expected to directly impact the coast.

States on Alert

Authorities are closely monitoring the following states:

• Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán, Colima, Guerrero, and Oaxaca: Expected to face rains, hailstorms, and high waves.
• Sonora, Chihuahua, and Durango: Under watch for the effects of the Mexican monsoon.
• Chiapas, Veracruz, Puebla, State of Mexico, Mexico City, Morelos, and Tlaxcala: Anticipating thunderstorms.
• Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo: Preparing for heavy rains and strong coastal winds.
• Baja California and Sonora: Facing extreme temperatures exceeding 45° C.

The SMN has cautioned that the expected rainfall could lead to landslides and flooding of rivers and streams. Residents are advised to heed civil protection warnings and avoid high-risk areas.

Extreme Heat Persists

Despite the incoming storms, extreme heat will continue to scorch parts of Mexico. The northeast of Baja California and central Sonora are forecast to experience temperatures above 45° C. Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Baja California Sur can expect temperatures between 40 and 45° C.

Additionally, wind gusts of up to 100 km/h and waves as high as 6 meters are predicted along the coasts of Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco, potentially leading to port closures and hazardous conditions for small vessels. The National Weather Service advises people to never walk or drive through flooded roadways, as just six inches of moving water can knock you down.