Major Storm System Slams Mexico, Bringing Heavy Rains and Extreme Cold
Mexico is bracing for a powerful winter storm, as a major cold front sweeps across the country, bringing a dramatic drop in temperatures, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The National Meteorological Service (SMN) and the National Water Commission (Conagua) are warning residents to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions.
The cold front, accompanied by an Arctic air mass and interacting with the polar jet stream, is expected to cause critically important disruptions across much of the country. The northern and northeastern regions will experience the brunt of the storm’s impact, with wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph (60 km/h) and the possibility of dust devils. In coastal areas, especially along tamaulipas, expect a “Norte” event—a surge of strong, cold winds—with gusts potentially exceeding 50 mph (80 km/h) and high waves.
Temperatures are expected to plummet, especially in the northwest, north, and northeast. Mountainous regions of Sonora, Chihuahua, and Durango could see temperatures as low as 23°F (-5°C) in the early hours of Monday. The influx of moisture from the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico will fuel heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms across central and southern Mexico, including areas around Mexico City.
By Monday, the cold front will shift towards the Gulf of Mexico slope, intensifying the rainfall. Puebla, Veracruz, and Oaxaca are predicted to experience very heavy rainfall, with Chiapas and Tabasco facing strong downpours. The “Norte” event will continue along the coasts of tamaulipas, Veracruz, and the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec, with wind gusts potentially reaching up to 56 mph (90 km/h). While the north and east will experience frigid temperatures, warmer conditions are expected in Pacific coastal states during the day.
Detailed Forecast for Monday, January 6, 2025
Rainfall
- Very heavy rain (2-3 inches): Puebla, Veracruz, and Oaxaca.
- Heavy rain (1-2 inches): Chiapas and Tabasco.
- Showers (0.2-1 inch): Hidalgo, Tlaxcala, State of Mexico, Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo.
- Isolated showers (less than 0.2 inches): Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosí, Querétaro, Michoacán, Mexico City, Morelos, and Guerrero.
High Temperatures
- 95-104°F (35-40°C): Sinaloa, colima, Michoacán, Guerrero (coast), Oaxaca (coast), and chiapas (coast).
Residents are urged to monitor weather reports closely and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this severe weather event. This includes securing loose objects, avoiding travel if possible, and being aware of potential flooding and power outages.
Severe Weather Sweeps Across Mexico: High Winds, Cold Snap, and High Waves
A powerful weather system is impacting Mexico, bringing a mix of extreme conditions across the country. Several states are facing strong winds, dangerously cold temperatures, and significant wave action along coastal areas. This weather event poses risks to residents and travelers alike.
The National Meteorological Service has issued warnings for various regions, highlighting the severity of the situation. High winds, described as a “North” event, are expected to reach speeds of 30 to 50 kilometers per hour (19 to 31 mph), with gusts potentially exceeding 70 to 90 kilometers per hour (43 to 56 mph) along the coasts of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec. These areas are also bracing for waves reaching heights of 2 to 4 meters (6.6 to 13.1 feet).
Other regions, including Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán, and northern Quintana Roo, are experiencing a less intense “North” event, with winds ranging from 20 to 30 kilometers per hour (12 to 19 mph) and gusts up to 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (25 to 37 mph). Meanwhile, states such as Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, nuevo León, Durango, Zacatecas, San Luis Potosí, and Puebla are experiencing strong winds of 15 to 30 kilometers per hour (9 to 19 mph), with gusts reaching 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (25 to 37 mph).
The cold snap is particularly concerning in mountainous areas of Chihuahua and Durango, where temperatures are expected to plummet to between -15 and -10 degrees Celsius (5 and 14 degrees Fahrenheit), accompanied by frost. Other mountainous regions, including those in Sonora, are facing temperatures between -10 and -5 degrees Celsius (14 and 23 degrees Fahrenheit). Many other states are experiencing freezing or near-freezing temperatures, impacting millions of residents.
in addition to the strong winds and cold, high temperatures are also affecting parts of the country.Nayarit, Jalisco, Morelos, Puebla (southwest), Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo are experiencing temperatures between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius (86 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit).
The western coast of Baja California is also experiencing rough seas, with waves reaching 1 to 2 meters (3.3 to 6.6 feet) in height. Authorities are urging caution for those living in affected areas and advising travelers to monitor weather reports and adjust plans accordingly.
This severe weather event underscores the importance of preparedness. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and thier property from the strong winds,cold temperatures,and potential flooding. Staying informed about weather updates is crucial for ensuring safety during this period of extreme weather.
Safety precautions
Remember to secure loose objects outdoors, avoid needless travel during periods of high winds, and dress warmly in layers to protect against the cold. Stay updated on weather alerts and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.
